Enhanced Oil Recovery Techniques for Mature Oil Fields

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques play a crucial role in maximizing hydrocarbon production from mature oil fields. As conventional oil reservoirs continue to deplete, the adoption of advanced EOR methods becomes imperative to unlock additional reserves and improve overall recovery efficiency. This thesis focuses on investigating various EOR techniques suitable for mature oil fields and evaluating their effectiveness in enhancing oil recovery rates. The research begins with an introduction outlining the significance of EOR in the oil and gas industry, particularly in the context of mature oil fields facing declining production rates. A comprehensive background study is presented to provide a detailed understanding of the challenges associated with conventional oil recovery methods and the need for implementing advanced EOR strategies to optimize production. The problem statement identifies the key issues hindering optimal oil recovery from mature fields, such as reservoir heterogeneity, fluid properties, and operational constraints. The objectives of the study are outlined to address these challenges by exploring different EOR methods, assessing their applicability, and determining their impact on enhancing oil recovery rates. The limitations of the study are acknowledged, including data availability, technical constraints, and potential uncertainties in field-scale implementation. The scope of the research is defined to focus on specific EOR techniques that are most suitable for mature oil fields and have the potential to significantly increase hydrocarbon production. The significance of the study lies in its contribution to the field of petroleum engineering by providing insights into the practical application of EOR methods for improving recovery factors in mature reservoirs. The structure of the thesis is outlined to guide the reader through the various chapters, including literature review, research methodology, findings discussion, and conclusion. The literature review explores existing research on EOR techniques, including chemical, thermal, and gas injection methods, to analyze their benefits, limitations, and field implementation challenges. The research methodology section describes the approach taken to evaluate the performance of selected EOR techniques through simulation studies, laboratory tests, and field trials. The findings discussion chapter presents the results of the research, highlighting the effectiveness of different EOR methods in enhancing oil recovery rates and improving overall reservoir performance. The conclusion summarizes the key findings, implications for the industry, and recommendations for future research and field applications. In conclusion, this thesis provides valuable insights into the application of enhanced oil recovery techniques for mature oil fields, offering practical solutions to overcome production challenges and maximize hydrocarbon reserves. The findings contribute to the advancement of EOR technology and its sustainable implementation in the oil and gas sector.