In a significant advancement for carbon capture and oil recovery, researchers from the Shengli Oilfield Company, SINOPEC, have unveiled a promising technology that enhances CO2 flooding and storage in challenging reservoir conditions. This innovative approach, detailed in a recent article published in Petroleum Exploration and Development, addresses the unique challenges faced in the Shengli Oilfield, including low hydrocarbon content and high miscible pressure.
The study led by Yong Yang, a representative of Shengli Oilfield Company and the Shandong Province Key Laboratory of CCUS, highlights the critical need for effective CO2 management in the energy sector. The research team conducted extensive laboratory experiments and field trials to develop a comprehensive understanding of high-pressure miscible flooding. By increasing formation pressure to 1.2 times the minimum miscible pressure, they successfully improved the miscibility of medium-heavy components, which is vital for maximizing oil recovery.
“The ability to enhance oil production while simultaneously storing CO2 is a game-changer for our industry,” Yang explained. “Our approach not only increases the efficiency of oil extraction but also contributes to our climate goals by facilitating effective CO2 storage.”
The application of advanced techniques such as cascade water-alternating-gas (WAG) and multistage chemical plugging has allowed for dynamic control of flow resistance. This ensures an even displacement front and expands the swept volume, ultimately optimizing both oil recovery and CO2 storage factors. The results are impressive: at the Gao89-Fan142 demonstration site, daily oil production surged from 254.6 tons to 358.2 tons, with expectations of an 11.6 percentage point increase in recovery over the next 15 years.
This breakthrough not only enhances the economic viability of oil extraction in low permeability reservoirs but also aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change through carbon capture and utilization strategies. As Yang noted, “This research provides a theoretical and technical foundation for the large-scale development of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), which is essential for a sustainable energy future.”
The implications of this research extend beyond the Shengli Oilfield. As the energy sector grapples with the dual challenge of meeting rising demand while addressing environmental concerns, technologies like high-pressure miscible flooding could play a crucial role in reshaping how we approach oil recovery and CO2 management. The potential for commercial applications is vast, paving the way for more environmentally responsible practices in fossil fuel extraction.
For further insights into this groundbreaking work, visit Shengli Oilfield Company, SINOPEC.
