The Development of a Probabilistic Physical Model for Foam Generation by Snapoff in Regular Square Grid Network Systems

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ABSTRACT This paper assesses the degree of influence snap-off, leading to either a bubble flowing or pore blocking mechanism, has on the pressure profiles and sweep efficiencies generated as a result of bubble production and foam propagation through regular square grid networks. A visual single pore model in which bubbles of known size can be generated leading to either of the two mechanisms was developed. New 2-D visual square grid networks have been developed in which different numbers (0,39,185) of these single pore bubble germination sites are incorporated as a fraction of the total number of sites available (800). In effect what has been created is a series of pre-determined, probablistic physical models for bubble generation by snap-off. These models have been used in a series of systematic drainage displacements. These experiments have yielded quantitative information on how bubble production and the subsequent flowing bubbles or pore blocking can affect a foam's ability to control the mobility of the gas phase. These studies allow for a more competent evaluation of the importance of both of these mechanisms in improving the sweep efficiency.