The Critical Role of Chemical Methods in Enhanced Oil Recovery

As conventional oil reserves decline and demand for energy continues to rise, Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques have become indispensable for maximizing hydrocarbon production from mature reservoirs. Among various EOR strategies, chemical methods stand out due to their ability to significantly alter fluid properties and rock-fluid interactions within the reservoir, leading to improved sweep efficiency and microscopic displacement. This article reviews the fundamental principles and applications of prominent chemical EOR techniques, including polymer flooding, surfactant flooding, alkaline flooding, and their combinations (e.g., ASP flooding). We discuss the mechanisms by which these chemicals reduce interfacial tension, improve mobility ratio, and alter wettability, thereby increasing oil recovery beyond what is achievable by primary and secondary methods. Furthermore, key challenges such as chemical degradation, adsorption losses, and environmental considerations are addressed, along with recent advancements aimed at overcoming these limitations. The future prospects of chemical EOR, focusing on smart chemicals and synergistic approaches, are also explored.

کلیدواژه ها:

Chemical Methods ، Enhanced Oil Recovery ، Surfactants ، Chemical Adsorption