Helmholtz Free Energy Model for Subterranean Fluid Simulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for simulating subterranean fluid behavior in oilfields lack accuracy in predicting phase behavior and flow dynamics at the pore scale, particularly in modeling complex compositional fluids and thermodynamic processes, due to limitations in existing equation of state (EOS) approaches and the separation of physical and chemical fluid behaviors.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the generation of a Helmholtz free energy model based on phase behavior data, which reproduces EOS model predictions over a predetermined pressure and temperature range, allowing for more accurate simulation of field operations using a computer system with a reservoir production tool that includes an EOS model generator and a Helmholtz free energy model generator.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional equation of state (EOS) approaches are used to simulate subterranean fluid behavior, then the simulation can be performed with existing methods, but the accuracy in predicting phase behavior and flow dynamics at the pore scale deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of phase behavior predictionVSAvoidreliability of flow dynamics modeling

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the traditional EOS parameters into Helmholtz free energy parameters, changing the fundamental thermodynamic framework. This parameter transformation enables more accurate representation of fluid phase behavior and thermodynamic properties at the pore scale, directly resolving the accuracy issue in traditional EOS approaches

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical EOS-based simulation system with a Helmholtz free energy-based system. This substitution integrates chemical and thermodynamic behaviors into a unified framework, improving both phase behavior prediction accuracy and flow dynamics reliability simultaneously

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of manufacture

If existing EOS models are used to represent fluid behavior, then the model structure is simple and familiar, but the ability to accurately represent chemical and thermodynamic properties of complex fluids deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of model generationVSAvoidprecision of thermodynamic modeling

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service approach where the Helmholtz free energy model automatically generates thermodynamic properties and phase behavior predictions from fundamental parameters. The model serves itself by integrating all thermodynamic relationships within a unified framework, eliminating the need for separate chemical and thermodynamic models while improving precision

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The Helmholtz free energy model serves multiple functions simultaneously: it represents phase behavior, calculates thermodynamic properties, and models fluid dynamics. This multi-functionality replaces multiple separate EOS models with a single universal framework that maintains ease of use while significantly improving modeling precision for complex fluids

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 comprehensive simulation of subterranean fluid behavior, improving the accuracy of fluid flow processes and thermodynamic modeling, enhancing oil recovery operations by accurately representing chemical and thermodynamic properties of complex fluids.

Implementation Method 1

generating a Helmholtz free energy model that reproduces predictions of the EOS model over a pre-determined pressure and temperature range

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHelmholtz free energy:

Data Source

PatentUS11118428B2Construction of digital representation of complex compositional fluids

Publication Date: 2021.09.14 SCHLUMBERGER TECH CORP

AI summary

A method for performing a simulation of a field having a subterranean formation is described. The method includes obtaining phase behavior data of subterranean fluids of the field, generating an equation of state (EOS) model of the fluids based on the phase behavior data, generating a Helmholtz free energy model that reproduces predictions of the EOS model over a pre-determined pressure and temperature range, and performing the simulation of the field using the Helmholtz free energy model. The method may further include reducing the EOS model to a reduced EOS model having a reduced number of components to represent the EOS model over a pre-determined pressure and temperature range, generating the Helmholtz free energy model based on the reduced EOS model, and obtaining and using phase behavior data of injection fluids used. A computer system data.