Mathematical modeling of in-depth gel treatment for water control in a heterogeneous oil reservoir: gel kinetics coupled by flow transport model

Abstract

ABSSTRACT This paper studies the performance of in-depth gel treatment in a heterogeneous oil reservoir. A two-dimensional numerical model considering the disproportionate permeability reduction mechanism is developed to study the effects of gel on water permeability reduction and water viscosity enhancement. To describe the in situ gel formation, kinetic equation is provided to address polymer-crosslinker reaction. We investigate the impacts of gel treatment on oil and water production rates, water cut and oil recovery in both homogenous and heterogeneous reservoirs. Results reveal a proper water-control in both reservoirs. The presented approach is considered useful in designing gel injection techniques to control water production.