Enhanced Oil Recovery Processes Evaluation, Design and Implementation

Dear Colleagues,

The applications of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) processes remain an attractive option for field development at any stage of its lifetime. Various EOR processes have been studied over recent years, some with a clear business case, and others that have mainly stayed at the feasibility/R&D stage. Evaluations of EOR processes and their designs until implementation require multiple stages that include various disciplines.

At the design/feasibility stage, the flow of fluids through porous media is often analyzed by combining three evaluations, namely, microscale, macroscale, and mesoscale. Microscale includes evaluations performed in microfluidics or lab-on-a-chip systems. Macroscale refers to flooding experiments performed in core plugs (carbonates and sandstones), sand packs or glass beads. During mesoscale evaluations, four main models are used (found in the literature), namely, continuum models, capillary bundle models, pore-scale network modelling and numerical methods. Overall, these steps support most of the elements of a final investment decision, from a subsurface technical/risk point of view. One additional element is the surface evaluation and matters related to cost and design. This further includes pilot test implementation and monitoring to guarantee a profitable project. Hence, key technological advancements that could support the decision-making and optimization process are of high importance.

This Special Issue is expected to bring together contributions covering all phases of an EOR project, namely, research, planning, field implementation, and surveillance. Many EOR projects and evaluations have been performed in the last decade, proving that EOR methods still have significant momentum globally. There is value to be unlocked in every aspect of an EOR project. Although there are several EOR techniques available, the focus is suggested, but not limited to, some certain processes. The focus is based on the suitability and applicability of each process, possible synergies, and possible support for carbon-efficient reservoir management. We also encourage papers on machine learning and artificial intelligence applications in enhanced oil recovery.

• Chemical EOR: polymer, alkali, nanoparticles, surfactant, microbial, solvent and foams;
• Low-salinity water flooding, smart water, engineered water;
• Thermal EOR: steam injection (cyclic or continuous), in situ combustion;
• Immiscible/miscible gas injection (either hydrocarbon, CO₂, N₂.

Dr. Rafael E. Hincapie
Guest Editor

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