In the process of oil extraction, hard mineral buildup inside the pipes and equipment can cause serious operational damage and safety issues such as pipe explosion. The current methods for descaling mineral buildup, however, can adversely impact the environment. Researchers have developed a new nanoparticle, amphiphilic hairy cellulose nanocrystals, that can prevent scaling and stabilize a commonly used emulsion, or liquid mixture, potentially making the oil extraction processes more efficient and less harmful to the environment.