Subterranean Wettability Alteration Using Persulfate and Bromate Oxidizers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs face challenges in hydrocarbon extraction due to limited hydrocarbon mobility, which is not effectively addressed by existing methods, and wettability of subterranean formations affects extraction rates.
Innovation Solution
Introducing a composition containing a first oxidizer, such as persulfate, and a second oxidizer, such as bromate, into the subterranean formation to alter wettability, making the rock surface non-wetting to both oil and water, thereby enhancing fluid mobility and reducing liquid blockages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hydraulic fracturing is used to increase hydrocarbon mobility, then hydrocarbon extraction is improved, but liquid blockages accumulate in fractures reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wettability parameter of the rock surface from water-wet to non-wetting state by introducing oxidizers that chemically modify the rock surface. This parameter change prevents liquid accumulation and blockages in fractures, maintaining hydrocarbon mobility and extraction efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful effect of liquid blockages into a benefit by altering the rock surface properties to repel liquids. The same rock surface that previously caused liquid accumulation is transformed to become non-wetting, thereby eliminating blockages and improving fracture flow
2Ease of operation
If conventional oxidizers are used to alter wettability, then wettability modification is achieved, but fluorinated chemicals are required which have environmental concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses conventional, biodegradable oxidizers instead of persistent fluorinated chemicals. These oxidizers perform the wettability alteration function and then degrade naturally, eliminating long-term environmental contamination while achieving the desired operational effect
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves wettability alteration through chemical oxidation parameters rather than using fluorinated compounds. By controlling oxidation conditions and concentrations, the desired non-wetting state is achieved without introducing environmentally harmful substances
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
The method effectively increases hydrocarbon extraction by altering the wettability of subterranean formations, improving gas production and reducing liquid accumulation in fractures, without using fluorinated chemicals.
Implementation Method 1
A first oxidizer including a persulfate is introduced to the subterranean formation. A second oxidizer including a bromate is introduced to the subterranean formation. The well is shut in for a period of time to allow the first oxidizer and the second oxidizer to alter the wettability of the subterranean formation
Data Source
AI summary
A method of altering wettability of a subterranean formation penetrated by a well is described. A first oxidizer including a persulfate is introduced to the subterranean formation. A second oxidizer including a bromate is introduced to the subterranean formation. The well is shut in for a period of time to allow the first oxidizer and the second oxidizer to alter the wettability of the subterranean formation toward non-wetting of oil and of water.