Preparation and Selection of Best-Performing Fluorescent-Based Tracers for Oil and Gas Downhole Applications

Abstract

Cost-efficient tracers with fast and simple detection and quantification methods at low detection limits via on-site detection is a current industrial target for state-of-the-art tracer tests. To bridge the gap between the desired tracer properties and detection limits, we developed a broad spectrum of robust and cost-efficient fluorescent tags to innovate the current reservoir management practices. We engineered new tracers and extended tracer test applications for on-site real-time well-drilling monitoring to label drill cuttings as they are made at the drill-bit face to improve drill-cuttings depth correlation. These developed fluorescent tracers not only have the low detection limits of fluorescent spectroscopy techniques but also allow for automated detection at minimal concentrations of 0.025–0.037 mol.%. These developed tracers allow us to detect the real-time drilling depth, thereby enhancing hydrocarbon recovery. Thus, the reported innovative fluorescent-based tracing approach would (1) reduce drilling depth correlation uncertainty, (2) optimize well placement, and (3) maximize oil production.

Unraveling Water-Based Lubrication with Carbon Dots of Asphaltene Origin

“…As the as-received 5 nm silica nanoparticles used in this study were tagged with fluorescein isothiocyanate dye, the peaks at 2870 and 1453 cm −1 in the 5 nm silica nanoparticle spectrum correspond to the C−H and C�C stretching vibrations in the aromatic rings of fluorescein isothiocyanate, respectively. 31 However, the intensity of the hydroxyl stretching bands is much lower than that in ACDs, suggesting that the ACDs contain more hydroxyl groups than either 5 or 20 nm silica nanoparticles.…”

Microfluidic devices, materials, and recent progress for petroleum applications: A review

“…[ 138 ] In‐situ static and dynamic visualization of a bicontinuous microemulsion was evaluated by Zhao et al, [ 139 ] implementing a glass device and fluorescence tagging technique to trace the fluid behaviour through the porous medium. [ 140 ] The surfactant solutions were prepared with 4‐dodecyl benzenesulfonate (SDBS), alcohol propoxy sulphate (APS), and KYPAM polymer mixed with an equal volume of tetradecane. Phase behaviour screening was performed to determine the optimal NaCl concentration, polymer influence, and concentration to reach the minimum IFT.…”

Fluorescent Tracers for Drill Cuttings Labelling: Compatibility with Oil-Based Drilling Mud, Long-Term Stability, and Possibility of the Recovery

“…We obtained laboratory batches of the tracers by scaling up and modification of the procedure we had previously used in the work [6]. Fluorescent dye (fluorescein or rhodamine B) (400 mg) was completely dissolved in 1000 mL of water under vigorous stirring for 1 h at room temperature.…”

“…Previously, we reported the synthesis and laboratory characterization of novel composite fluorescent tags [6]. In this study, we investigated distinct properties required for such materials in downhole applications.…”