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

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques for mature oil fields, focusing on a comparative study to assess their effectiveness and feasibility. The oil industry is constantly seeking innovative methods to maximize oil production from mature fields, where primary and secondary recovery methods have reached their limits. The research explores various EOR techniques, including chemical, thermal, and gas injection methods, to enhance oil recovery rates and increase ultimate oil reserves. The study begins with an introduction to the challenges faced by mature oil fields and the importance of implementing EOR techniques to extract remaining oil reserves efficiently. A detailed background of the study establishes the context for the research, highlighting the significance of EOR in sustaining oil production. The problem statement identifies the gaps in existing knowledge and the need for a comparative study to evaluate the performance of different EOR methods in mature oil fields. The objectives of the study aim to assess the effectiveness, economic viability, and environmental impact of various EOR techniques. Limitations of the study are acknowledged, including data availability, field-specific variations, and technological constraints that may influence the findings. The scope of the study outlines the geographical and technical boundaries within which the research is conducted, focusing on case studies of mature oil fields that have implemented EOR techniques. The significance of the study lies in its potential to provide valuable insights for oil industry professionals, researchers, and policymakers involved in maximizing oil recovery from mature fields. The structure of the thesis is outlined to guide readers through the research methodology, literature review, findings discussion, and conclusion. The literature review in Chapter 2 presents an in-depth analysis of existing research on EOR techniques, including case studies, field applications, and performance evaluations. Ten key themes are identified and critically reviewed to build a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Chapter 3 details the research methodology, including data collection methods, analysis techniques, and experimental procedures employed to compare and evaluate different EOR techniques. Eight contents cover aspects such as field studies, laboratory experiments, economic analysis, and environmental considerations. Chapter 4 provides a thorough discussion of the research findings, presenting comparative analyses, performance evaluations, and case study outcomes for different EOR methods. The chapter explores the implications of the findings for practical applications and future research directions in EOR technologies. In Chapter 5, the conclusion and summary of the thesis highlight the key findings, contributions to the field, and recommendations for industry stakeholders. The thesis concludes with reflections on the significance of EOR techniques for mature oil fields and the potential for further advancements in oil recovery technologies. Overall, this thesis contributes to the knowledge base on EOR techniques for mature oil fields, offering insights into the comparative effectiveness of different methods and their implications for sustainable oil production and reservoir management.