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

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 various EOR techniques to assess their effectiveness in revitalizing mature oil fields. The research focuses on analyzing the performance and feasibility of primary, secondary, and tertiary EOR methods, including water flooding, gas injection, chemical flooding, thermal methods, and microbial EOR. The study begins by providing an overview of the current challenges faced by mature oil fields and the necessity of implementing EOR techniques to enhance oil recovery rates. Through an extensive review of existing literature, the thesis identifies key factors influencing the selection and implementation of EOR methods, such as reservoir characteristics, fluid properties, economic considerations, and environmental impact. In the methodology section, a detailed research framework is outlined, encompassing data collection, analysis techniques, simulation modeling, and field case studies. The research methodology involves a combination of numerical simulations, laboratory experiments, and field studies to evaluate the performance of different EOR techniques under varying reservoir conditions. The findings chapter presents a comparative analysis of the various EOR methods, highlighting their advantages, limitations, and potential for application in mature oil fields. The results reveal the significance of factors such as sweep efficiency, displacement efficiency, oil recovery factor, and cost-effectiveness in determining the success of EOR projects. The discussion section delves into the implications of the findings, discussing the technical, economic, and environmental considerations associated with implementing EOR techniques in mature oil fields. The chapter also explores the integration of different EOR methods to optimize oil recovery and minimize operational risks. In conclusion, this thesis summarizes the key findings of the study and provides recommendations for the selection and implementation of EOR techniques in mature oil fields. The research underscores the importance of tailored EOR strategies based on reservoir characteristics and highlights the potential for synergistic combinations of EOR methods to achieve enhanced oil recovery rates. Keywords Enhanced Oil Recovery, Mature Oil Fields, Comparative Study, Water Flooding, Gas Injection, Chemical Flooding, Thermal Methods, Microbial EOR, Reservoir Characteristics, Economic Considerations.