Laboratory experiment, modeling and field application of indigenous microbial flooding

Abstract In this study, the indigenous microorganisms in the produced water of Block Zhan-3 in Shengli Oilfield were activated successfully when corn steep liquor and (NH 4 ) 2 HPO 4 was used as carbon source and nitrogen and phosphorus source, respectively. The oil viscosity change after interaction with microorganisms was measured and the physical simulation experiment of indigenous microbial flooding was performed. Based on the main mechanisms of IMEOR (indigenous microbial enhanced oil recovery), a mathematical model of indigenous microbial flooding reflecting the migration, growth, metabolism and adsorption properties of indigenous microorganisms was established. Using the orthogonal design method, the concentration of activating nutrient, air injection quantity, injection PV and injection mode of indigenous microbial flooding were optimized. According to the actual situation of Block Zhan-3, an optimal program was proposed and field test in Block Zhan-3 was conducted. This study shows that the indigenous microbial flooding can achieve better water reduction and enhanced oil recovery effect; by using the mathematical model of indigenous microbial flooding, it is possible to achieve a reliable performance prediction. The results can effectively provide guidance for the popularization and application of the IMEOR technology.