A pilot numerical simulation case study for chemical EOR feasibility evaluation

Abstract Because of high oil price and technology advancement in recent years, chemical EOR is becoming an important option for maintaining sustainable efficient development for mature reservoirs in the future. In this paper, an integrated numerical simulation approach is adopted for Palouge oilfield in South Sudan for chemical EOR feasibility evaluation. The chemical EOR methods are preliminarily screened for the main oil-bearing zones, and the advantages and disadvantages for chemical flooding are analyzed by comparing technical parameter limits with oilfield parameters. Specifically, the pilot oil zone and areal position selection was determined using a comprehensive method, which is based on zonal injection plan and application experiences. Chemical EOR simulation is performed for sensitivity analysis and different scenarios prediction. Three technical indicators are employed to evaluate the EOR efficiency. Some key physiochemical factors with uncertainty are also analyzed in detail, and this will provide unusual useful information for comprehensive feasibility evaluation. The proposed technical evaluation procedure provides a helpful guidance for chemical EOR feasibility assessment in other analogous reservoirs.

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