Silicate injection for IOR

Abstract

This thesis is a literature study of sodium silicate as an enhanced oil recovery method. We will follow the steps from experiments conducted, simulations, and then actual field operations conducted in the Snorre field, Norway. The objective of the sodium silicate is to plug high permeable zones in the reservoir (in – depth); in order to divert the following injected fluids to improving the reservoir sweep efficiency. Sodium silicate has only been previously used to plug near the injection well, but comprehensive qualification program revealed that the onset of gelation can be controlled. This thesis will highlight key design, response measurement plan and operational experiences. The updated status is that the large scale interwell operation is still on – going, meaning that not all the tracers have reached the producer (officially at least). This implies that more time is needed to be certain on whether or not this operation were truly successful.