Experimental investigation on supercritical multi-thermal fluid flooding using a novel 2-dimensional model

Abstract

Supercritical multi-thermal fluid (SCMTF) is a promising alternative to traditional thermal agents for deep heavy oil recovery. However, no 2-dimensional experimental investigation on SCMTF flooding has been conducted due to the limitations of existing apparatuses. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to develop a novel assembly for investigating the performance of SCMTF flooding. Subsequently, the SCMTF chamber evolution is characterized using newly developed equipment, and enhanced oil recovery (EOR) mechanisms are proposed. Finally, the effects of the injection temperature, injection pressure, scN2/scCO2 mixture, and heavy oil viscosity on SCMTF are comprehensively studied. The results show that the SCMTF chamber displays an inverted trapezoidal shape with a uniform front. SCMTF flooding can enhance heavy oil recovery by 13.36% relative to steam flooding by sweep area expansion, oil mobility improvement, and miscible flooding. Increasing the injection temperature, injection pressure or scN2/scCO2 mixture to SCW molar ratio can facilitate the production of heavy oil, while using SCMTF in an extra-heavy oil cannot maximize the EOR effect of SCMTF. Notably, the high yield of coke produced at elevated temperatures may lead to potential formation damage.