Improvement of chemical enhanced oil recovery methods

Abstract

In the midst of the imperative transition towards ecological sustainability, the role of oil as a vital energy resource is undeniable. This Thesis tackles the challenge of amplifying the oil recovery potential of Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques applied in oil reservoirs, especially of carbonate rocks, to optimize oil extraction from existing reservoirs. The research explores three chemical EOR method approaches: the control of unstable displacement (viscous ingering), reduction of interfacial tension (IFT), and alteration of rock wettability. The study on controlling viscous ingering via chemical reactions was methodically conducted through numerical simulations. Afterward, advanced formulations employing surfactants and ionic liquid blends were examined for EOR applications by reducing IFT to low values. Several ionic liquids were evaluated to improve the rock wettability alteration properties of smart water at low temperatures. The results obtained in this work show promising techniques to move beyond known oil recovery methods, balancing today's demands with the imperatives of tomorrow.