Enhanced Oil Recovery Techniques for Unconventional Reservoirs

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis explores the application of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques for unconventional reservoirs, aiming to improve hydrocarbon recovery efficiency from challenging reservoir types. Unconventional reservoirs, characterized by low permeability and porosity, present unique challenges in extracting oil and gas resources efficiently. The study investigates various EOR methods tailored for unconventional reservoirs, including but not limited to hydraulic fracturing, chemical flooding, and thermal recovery techniques. The research begins by providing a comprehensive introduction to the background of the study, highlighting the significance of enhancing recovery techniques in unconventional reservoirs. The problem statement underscores the limitations and challenges faced in extracting hydrocarbons from these complex reservoirs, setting the stage for the objectives of the study. The primary objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of different EOR methods in improving oil recovery rates in unconventional reservoirs, considering their limitations and scope. A thorough literature review in Chapter Two examines existing studies and research findings on EOR techniques in unconventional reservoirs. Ten key items are explored, encompassing the principles, applications, and outcomes of various EOR methods in similar reservoir settings. This review serves as a foundation for the subsequent chapters, providing insights into the current state of knowledge and identifying gaps in research that this study aims to address. Chapter Three focuses on the research methodology employed to investigate EOR techniques for unconventional reservoirs. Eight distinct contents are outlined, detailing the experimental approach, data collection methods, and analytical techniques utilized in evaluating the effectiveness of different EOR methods. The chapter also discusses the selection criteria for case studies and simulation models used to assess the performance of EOR techniques in unconventional reservoirs. Chapter Four presents a detailed discussion of the findings obtained from the research, analyzing the effectiveness of various EOR techniques in enhancing oil recovery from unconventional reservoirs. The chapter explores the implications of the results, discusses the challenges encountered during the study, and provides insights into the potential applications and limitations of different EOR methods in similar reservoir settings. Finally, Chapter Five offers a comprehensive conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting the key findings, implications, and contributions to the field of petroleum engineering. The study underscores the significance of adopting tailored EOR techniques for unconventional reservoirs and provides recommendations for future research directions in improving hydrocarbon recovery efficiency in challenging reservoir environments.