Degradable Diversion Agent Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current degradable diversion agents in oil and gas operations face limitations due to the lack of timely and job-specific workflows that optimize particle size, shape, concentration, and other parameters, leading to inefficient fluid diversion and pressure build-up in hydrocarbon production processes.
Innovation Solution
The use of proprietary analytical and numerical techniques, combined with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Discrete Element Methods (DEM), to customize diversion processes by optimizing particle size, shape, concentration, and flow rate, ensuring effective plugging and jamming in specific formations, and predicting pressure build-up, thereby enhancing diversion efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If degradable diversion agents are used without optimized workflows, then the diversion process is simpler to implement, but the diversion efficiency and pressure build-up capability are significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically optimizing multiple parameters including particle size distribution, particle concentration, injection rate, and fluid viscosity to maximize diversion efficiency. The methodology involves creating lookup tables that correlate these parameters with expected pressure build-up and diversion performance, allowing engineers to select optimal parameter combinations based on specific well conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action through extensive pre-job planning and modeling. Before field deployment, the system performs reservoir modeling, particle transport simulation, and pressure build-up prediction to determine the optimal diversion agent properties and injection parameters. This preliminary analysis ensures that when the diversion operation is executed, it achieves maximum efficiency without requiring complex real-time adjustments.
2Stress or pressure
If particle size and concentration are increased to improve pressure build-up, then diversion effectiveness increases, but the risk of formation damage and sand production increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using a polydisperse particle size distribution where different particle sizes serve different functions. Larger particles provide the primary pressure build-up framework, while smaller particles fill void spaces and enhance sealing without causing excessive formation damage. This differentiated approach allows the particle mixture to achieve effective pressure build-up while minimizing harmful effects on the formation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining degradable polymer particles with sand particles in specific ratios. This composite approach creates a diversion agent system that achieves the desired pressure build-up characteristics while the degradable polymer component reduces formation damage compared to using sand alone. The composite structure allows for optimized mechanical properties and controlled degradation behavior.
3Ease of manufacture
If degradable polymers are used for zonal isolation, then mechanical removal is unnecessary, but the ability to control fluid flow paths precisely is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the diversion process into distinct phases: initial particle injection for jamming, followed by degradable polymer injection for plugging and sealing. This segmented approach allows the system to first establish a mechanical barrier with particles, then enhance it with the degradable polymer material that provides additional sealing and flow control capabilities without requiring mechanical removal.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables the creation of robust and efficient diversion systems that can withstand high pressure differentials, optimizing fluid diversion and pressure build-up, even in complex geological formations, by tailoring diversion parameters to specific job requirements and environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
They are capable of degrading (e.g., with time) from a solid polymer state into a fluid, such as a clear non-damaging liquid monomer solution
Implementation Method 2
The chemistries used for degradable diversions, such as TBLOCKSURE® product chemistries, may be designed to exhibit a variation of jamming, plugging, and degrading properties
Implementation Method 3
a first phase of the diversion process may include the formation of a stable jammed structure. This structure may form the base for an effective plugging mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure pertains to the design and implementation of a diversion procedure for geologic openings. Embodiments involve performing a screening analysis to determine if a well or formation is appropriate for stimulation. If a well is appropriate, a modeling analysis is performed to determine candidate parameters for a diversion procedure. The analysis is divided into two segments, a dry analysis of jamming and a wet and full-physics-based analysis of plugging. The jamming analysis provides candidates to the plugging analysis to reduce the work of the more intensive wet full-physics modeling.