13 March, 2024

Created a gel that increases the efficiency of oil extraction.

It closes pores and channels in highly porous samples 99% clogging cracks and penetrates shallow permeability rock, the Perm National Research Polytechnic University reported

The PNIPU developed a polymer gel capable of increasing the efficiency of oil extraction by controlling the pressure of water injected into the formation. This was reported by the press service of the university.

We found that the resulting gel covers 99% of the pores and channels in highly porous samples. The composition clogs cracks and penetrates shallow permeability. Within 24 hours a gel-like structure is formed, which blocks the movement of plastic water through cracks», – said the candidate of technical sciences, leading researcher of the department “Oil and gas technologies” PNIP Vladimir Poplygin, whose words are quoted by the press service of the university.

The water is pumped into the reservoir through special injection wells in order to improve the flow of oil to the producing wells. If the liquid breaks into the last fracture in the rock, the efficiency of oil extraction is reduced. The authors proposed to inject a polymer gel into it, which, due to the characteristics of the composition, clogs cracks more effectively than analogues.

The existing compositions do not always meet the necessary requirements for high-quality well filling. To block cracks in highly viscous oil formations, PNIP scientists selected components of a new gel composition. Polyacrylamide, technical lignosulfonates, hydrochloric acid and magnesium chloride were chosen as the basis. <… > The composition optimizes the direction of water movement through the formation and increases the oil recovery», – explained in the press service.