Organic formation damage control and remediation

Organic skin damage in oil producing wells is a major factor in the loss of productivity and revenue. Paraffin and asphaltene deposition in the formation and around the well bore creates a barrier for the transportation of the crude oil to the tubing. Many producing wells have experienced a production decline that can not be explained by reservoir depletion. Organic damage may occur naturally or through various intervention practices used in the oilfield. An increased awareness of the potential for ongoing organic damage has been developing slowly over time. Better methods of problem identification and programs to remediate these problems have been developed in recent years. The potential sources of organic damage, problem identification test techniques, chemical selection and application methods are discussed. Numerous case histories for a variety of problems are also presented.