Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques play a crucial role in maximizing hydrocarbon production from mature oil fields. This thesis presents a comprehensive comparative study of three prominent EOR methods - chemical, thermal, and gas injection - to evaluate their effectiveness in enhancing oil recovery from mature oil fields. The aim of this research is to provide valuable insights into the most suitable EOR method for mature oil fields, considering factors such as cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and overall efficiency. The study begins with an introduction to the significance of EOR techniques in the petroleum industry, particularly in the context of mature oil fields facing declining production rates. A detailed background of the study discusses the current challenges in conventional oil recovery methods and the need for advanced EOR strategies to optimize oil production. The problem statement highlights the limitations of existing EOR methods and emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative techniques for mature oil fields. The objectives of this study are to compare the performance of chemical, thermal, and gas injection methods in enhancing oil recovery, assess their economic feasibility, and analyze their environmental implications. The limitations of the study are acknowledged, including constraints such as data availability, technological constraints, and the complexity of field conditions. The scope of the study is defined in terms of the specific EOR methods, oil field characteristics, and geographical regions considered in the comparative analysis. The significance of this research lies in its potential to guide petroleum engineers and decision-makers in selecting the most suitable EOR method for mature oil fields to maximize oil recovery and extend the economic life of oil reservoirs. The structure of the thesis is outlined, detailing the organization of chapters and the flow of information to address the research objectives effectively. Definitions of key terms related to EOR techniques and oil field operations are provided to ensure clarity and understanding throughout the thesis. A comprehensive literature review in Chapter Two explores existing studies, theories, and practical applications of chemical, thermal, and gas injection EOR methods in mature oil fields. Ten critical aspects are examined, including the mechanisms of each EOR method, field applications, success stories, limitations, and future research directions. Chapter Three presents the research methodology employed in this study, encompassing a detailed description of the experimental design, data collection methods, analytical techniques, and modeling approaches used to compare the performance of chemical, thermal, and gas injection EOR methods. Eight key components of the research methodology are discussed to ensure the validity and reliability of the findings. In Chapter Four, the findings of the comparative study are discussed in detail, focusing on the effectiveness, efficiency, and practicality of chemical, thermal, and gas injection EOR methods in mature oil fields. The analysis includes numerical simulations, field case studies, economic evaluations, and environmental assessments to provide a comprehensive evaluation of each EOR method. Finally, Chapter Five presents the conclusions drawn from the research findings, summarizing the key insights, implications, and recommendations for the application of EOR techniques in mature oil fields. The thesis concludes with a summary of the main findings, contributions to the field of petroleum engineering, and suggestions for future research directions to further enhance oil recovery from mature oil fields using advanced EOR methods. In conclusion, this thesis contributes valuable knowledge and insights to the field of petroleum engineering by offering a comparative analysis of chemical, thermal, and gas injection EOR techniques for mature oil fields. The findings of this research can inform industry practitioners, researchers, and policymakers in making informed decisions to optimize oil recovery and extend the productive life of mature oil reservoirs.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Enhanced Oil Recovery Techniques for Mature Oil Fields: A Comparative Study of Chemical, Thermal, and Gas Injection Methods" aims to investigate and compare different enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques for mature oil fields. Mature oil fields are those that have been producing oil for an extended period and are typically characterized by declining production rates. To sustain and maximize oil production from these fields, EOR techniques are essential. The primary objective of this research is to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of three key EOR methods: chemical, thermal, and gas injection, in increasing oil recovery from mature oil fields. Each method offers unique advantages and challenges, and understanding their performance characteristics is crucial for optimizing oil production in such fields. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review to provide a solid background on the principles, applications, and recent developments in chemical, thermal, and gas injection EOR methods. This review will serve as a foundation for understanding the current state-of-the-art practices in the industry and identifying gaps in knowledge that the research aims to address. Following the literature review, the research methodology will be outlined, detailing the experimental setup, data collection methods, and analysis techniques that will be employed to compare the performance of chemical, thermal, and gas injection methods. Laboratory experiments, numerical simulations, and field case studies may be conducted to gather relevant data and insights into the efficacy of each EOR technique. The findings from the research will be discussed in detail in the subsequent chapters, highlighting the strengths and limitations of each EOR method in enhancing oil recovery from mature oil fields. Factors such as cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and technical feasibility will be considered in evaluating the overall performance of these techniques. The significance of this research lies in its potential to provide valuable insights for the oil and gas industry in optimizing production from mature oil fields. By identifying the most effective EOR method or combination of methods for specific field conditions, operators can make informed decisions to maximize oil recovery and extend the economic lifespan of mature oil fields. In conclusion, this research project seeks to contribute to the body of knowledge on EOR techniques for mature oil fields and offer practical recommendations for industry stakeholders. By comparing the performance of chemical, thermal, and gas injection methods, the research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the benefits and challenges associated with each approach, ultimately contributing to more sustainable and efficient oil production practices.