Enhanced Oil Recovery Techniques in Mature Oil Fields: A Case 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 study on the application of EOR techniques in mature oil fields, focusing on a specific case study to provide practical insights and recommendations for the industry. The research begins with an introduction to the significance of EOR in the petroleum industry and highlights the challenges faced in mature oil fields. The background of the study sets the context for understanding the importance of implementing advanced recovery methods to sustain production levels in aging reservoirs. The problem statement identifies the gap in existing literature regarding the optimal EOR strategies for mature oil fields and underscores the need for further research in this area. The objectives of the study are outlined to investigate the effectiveness of various EOR techniques, analyze their economic feasibility, and provide recommendations for implementation. Limitations of the study are acknowledged, including data availability, technical constraints, and time limitations. The scope of the study delineates the boundaries within which the research is conducted, focusing on a specific mature oil field as a case study. The significance of the study lies in its potential to contribute to the body of knowledge on EOR applications in mature reservoirs and offer practical solutions to industry challenges. The structure of the thesis is outlined to guide the reader through the research methodology, findings, discussions, and conclusions. A comprehensive literature review in Chapter Two explores ten key areas related to EOR techniques, reservoir characterization, fluid properties, wellbore integrity, and operational challenges in mature oil fields. The research methodology in Chapter Three details the approach taken to collect data, analyze reservoir performance, simulate EOR scenarios, and evaluate economic factors. Methodological considerations, data sources, and analytical tools are discussed to provide transparency and rigor in the research process. Chapter Four presents a detailed discussion of the findings from the case study, including the performance of different EOR methods, their impact on production rates, and cost-effectiveness. The analysis of results highlights the strengths and limitations of each technique and offers insights into the optimal strategies for enhancing oil recovery in mature fields. In Chapter Five, the conclusion summarizes the key findings of the study, reiterates the significance of EOR in mature oil fields, and provides recommendations for future research and industry practices. The thesis concludes with a summary of the main contributions, implications for the petroleum industry, and suggestions for further exploration in this field. Overall, this thesis contributes to the understanding of EOR techniques in mature oil fields and offers practical recommendations for improving hydrocarbon recovery efficiency and sustainability in aging reservoirs. By examining a specific case study, this research aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice and provide valuable insights for industry professionals, researchers, and policymakers involved in the petroleum sector.