Monitoring EOR and Well Stimulation Techniques by Oil Optical Properties Measurement

Abstract

To provide the efficient oil reserves development it is critical to select the technology control method that will fully meet field conditions. Optical method to control the efficiency of applied technologies is a reliable technique based on the analysis of oil light absorption factor. To assess the effect of enhanced oil recovery techniques on well-stream optical characteristics we analyzed oil samples from the Romashkinskoye field wells (North-Almetyevsk Area) where hydrophobic emulsion, weak polymer solutions, and acid composition have been injected. The integrated analysis of geologic data and oil optical characteristics before and after hydraulic fracturing has been performed to assess the effect of frac jobs on both new and residual oil reserves development. Correlation dependence between produced oil volume and its optical characteristics has been identified. The integrated analysis showed the decrease of oil light absorption factor after frac jobs which suggests the fluid flow change and the development of by-passed zones. In other words, this means the improved sweep efficiency. Based on producing well data, hydraulic fracturing resulted in improved residual oil displacement and, consequently, in increased sweep efficiency. Based on the integrated analysis data it has been concluded that optical analysis of oil samples is a proximate reservoir management method and a precise tool to assess the efficiency of the above-mentioned enhanced oil recovery techniques in the development of by-passed reserves. The technology of integrated oil optical characteristics analysis to control the efficiency of EOR and well stimulation techniques continues to be improved.

Experience in the Application of Hydrocarbon Optical Studies in Oil Field Development

“…Both at the planning stage and at the geological and technical measures stage, they monitor the operations carried out. Therefore, hydraulic fracturing process planning can be done using the optical control method [16] and the effectiveness of the GTA (geological and technical actions) can be assessed by [17]. Operational control of drilling processes [18] and well operation [19] with the use of machine learning elements reduces both technological and economic risks.…”