Session: 11-10-03 Development of Unconventional Reservoirs-3

Paper Number: 79074

79074 - Evaluation and Understanding the Potential of Enhanced Oil Recovery for a Candidate Offshore Sandstone Field 

The aim of this investigation is to develop a comprehensive understanding of an enhanced oil recovery (EOR) candidate reservoir based in an unconventional sandstone dominated environment. The unique geology, owing to its proximity to an inland, endorheic basin, alongside its complex stratigraphic geometry incorporating extensive folding and faulting as well as a laterally extensive unconformity. The study leans heavily on the forefront of reservoir and fluid characterizations. A conclusive understanding of the reservoir rock, fluid properties and how they vary spatially is essential.

Reservoir characterization is crucial in providing an outline of the sub-surface and helps visualize the hydrocarbon system in-place. Our study area is segregated into two important sections; the upper, unconsolidated zone and the deeper consolidated units. Each section was analyzed in detail to understand the petrophysical and fluid properties. The properties of the rock formation(s) of interest were identified from mineralogical content based on XRD analysis, SEM analysis and thin section petrography to develop an interlink between the results. Acoustic measurements were conducted to assign numerical values to mechanical properties of the core plugs. The depositional history and post-depositional processes are also accounted. A compilation of the aforementioned results plays a key role in determining reservoir quality and fluid properties which heavily influences important variables such as porosity, permeability, capillary pressure, relative permeability, wettability, interfacial tension and fluid compositions. The clay mineralogy affects the penetration rate and the diagenetic overprint either enhances or deliberates fluid flow.

 

The novelty of this integrated study lays the foundation for a thorough and bespoke screening EOR study, which is currently under development for an offshore candidate field. Preliminary screenings were also conducted through core flooding representative outcrops. An understanding of the integration of the various reservoirs, fluid properties, including both consolidated and unconsolidated zones, is essential in determining the characteristics of the entirety of the candidate reservoir. Incorporating these complex zones in an integrated reservoir characterization study is fundamental in achieving successful EOR deployment and optimizes oil production.

Presenting Author: Md Motiur Rahman Khalifa University of Science and Technology

Authors:

Chuangchuang Qi Khalifa University of Science and Technology
Aneesa Ijaz Rabbani Khalifa University of Science and Technology
Abhijith Suboyin Khalifa University of Science and Technology
Jassim Abubacker Ponnambathayil Khalifa University of Science and Technology
Md Motiur Rahman Khalifa University of Science and Technology
Mohamed Haroun Khalifa University of Science and Technology
Qisheng Ma Power Environmental Energy Research Institute
Muhammad Gibrata Dragon Oil
Lamia Rouis Dragon Oil
Yanfidra Djanuar Dragon Oil