Effect of asphaltene precipitation on carbonate rock permeability: An experimental and numerical approach

Abstract

Asphaltene precipitation can have profound effects on oil production during miscible flooding, heavy oil recovery, or even primary depletion. Investigations of the effect of asphaltene precipitation on carbonate rock permeability identify two distinct mechanisms, namely deposition and adsorption. The sharply flow-rate-dependent deposition is attributed to trapping and mechanical plugging, while adsorption is explained in terms of irreversible thermodynamics. A coupled deposition-adsorption mathematical model accurately predicts permeability damage due to mechanical trapping and adsorption, as evidenced by experimental results. Three different plugging regimes are identified and are verified with the numerical model.

Publication Title

Proceedings - SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS