Experimental evaluation of chemical sand stabilization and its optimization of composite sand control with squeeze gravel pack

Abstract

Chemical stabilization is a viable solution for controlling the sand migration and production issues encountered in unconsolidated sandstone reservoirs. With numerous sand stabilizers available, screening the appropriate reagent and clarifying its utilization are crucial for enhancing sand control efficiency. This paper explores the impact of chemical sand stabilization on the expansion and diversification of sand production patterns and provides an experimental evaluation approach from an engineering standpoint. The evaluation experiments show that the sanding patterns may shift from collapse to a stabilized sanding cavity as the stabilizer content increases, and may remain relatively steady despite the increased flow rate under a high content of chemical sand stabilizer. Nevertheless, chemical stabilization has limited power to control unconsolidated sandstone, particularly in the early stages of fluid flushing when adequate support could not be provided, resulting in explosive sand production. Furthermore, their lifetime of efficacy in engineering applications is still insufficient. Based on the evaluation results, research on the construction method of mechanical-chemical sand control and parameter optimization including treatment range, dosage, and extrusion rate was established. The chemical stabilization screening method and mechanical-chemical design method presented in this work have been proven to be feasible through the successful application in the Gudong oilfield. The combination of chemical stabilization and squeeze gravel pack technology provides dual benefits of blocking coming sand near well and stabilizing weekly cemented sand far well, particularly for wells with extensive sanding history. It has a fair chance of helping with the engineering of sand management and production enhancement for unconsolidated sandstone reservoirs.