Enhanced Oil Recovery Techniques for Unconventional Reservoirs

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques play a crucial role in maximizing hydrocarbon production from unconventional reservoirs. This thesis explores various EOR methods tailored for challenging reservoir conditions, focusing on their applicability, effectiveness, and limitations in enhancing oil recovery rates. The study delves into the background of EOR techniques, highlighting the growing importance of unconventional reservoirs in the global oil and gas industry. The project addresses the pressing need for innovative strategies to extract oil efficiently from these complex reservoirs. Through an extensive literature review, ten key EOR methods are evaluated in terms of their mechanisms, advantages, and limitations in unconventional reservoir settings. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state-of-the-art EOR technologies and highlights areas for further research and development. The research methodology section outlines the approach taken to analyze and compare these EOR techniques, including laboratory experiments, numerical simulations, and field case studies. The findings from the study reveal critical insights into the performance of various EOR methods in unconventional reservoirs, shedding light on the factors influencing their effectiveness and economic viability. The discussion of findings section presents a detailed analysis of the results, emphasizing the impact of reservoir properties, fluid characteristics, and operational parameters on EOR outcomes. Case studies and practical examples are used to illustrate the real-world application of these techniques and their potential benefits for enhancing oil recovery. In conclusion, this thesis summarizes the key findings and implications of the research, emphasizing the significance of EOR techniques in unlocking the vast hydrocarbon reserves trapped in unconventional reservoirs. The study underscores the need for continued innovation and technological advancement in EOR to meet the growing energy demands of the future. By enhancing our understanding of EOR methods and their applicability in unconventional reservoirs, this research contributes to the sustainable development of oil and gas resources and the optimization of production processes in the petroleum industry.