Enhanced Oil Recovery Techniques for Aging Oil Fields: A Comparative Study

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques play a critical role in maximizing hydrocarbon production from aging oil fields, aiming to increase recovery factors and maximize asset value. This thesis presents a comprehensive comparative study of various EOR techniques for aging oil fields, evaluating their effectiveness, applicability, and economic feasibility. The research encompasses a detailed analysis of primary, secondary, and tertiary methods utilized in the industry, such as water flooding, gas injection, chemical flooding, and thermal methods like steam injection. The study explores the challenges faced by aging oil fields due to declining production rates and the limitations of conventional recovery methods. Chapter one provides an introduction to the research topic, outlining the background of the study, defining the problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and key definitions. Chapter two presents a thorough literature review with ten items focusing on existing EOR techniques, their applications, advantages, and limitations in the context of aging oil fields. Chapter three details the research methodology, including data collection methods, analysis techniques, sampling procedures, and experimental setups used to compare and evaluate EOR techniques. The chapter also discusses the selection criteria for the case studies and simulation models employed to assess the performance of various EOR methods. Chapter four presents a detailed discussion of the findings obtained from the comparative study, analyzing the effectiveness of different EOR techniques in enhancing oil recovery from aging fields. The chapter explores factors influencing the selection of EOR methods, reservoir characteristics, fluid properties, economic considerations, and environmental impacts. It further delves into case studies and simulation results to illustrate the practical application and performance of selected EOR techniques. Finally, chapter five offers a comprehensive conclusion and summary of the project thesis, highlighting the key findings, implications for the industry, and recommendations for future research. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on EOR techniques for aging oil fields, providing insights into the best practices, challenges, and opportunities for optimizing hydrocarbon recovery and extending the productive life of mature reservoirs.