Controlling water in producing operations. Part 5. Using polyacrylamide polymers

Abstract

If used correctly, dilute polyacrylamide polymers are ideal water control materials since they may be injected without reducing oil or gas production, but will restrict water production. There is no need to detect the water production source or to isolate any zones (except in injection wells). Polymers are simply dissolved in water at the surface and injected into wells. They are a relatively low-cost treatment, since they are used at low concentrations (ca 2000 to 3000 ppm) and there is minimal well preparation. Field results have varied from manifold increases of oil production and nearly complete water shut-off to just the opposite. It is important to know these polymers characteristics, where they may be successful or unsuccessful, and how they should be used. Regardless of how they work (and 3 theories are given), polymers are useful for blocking water in producing wells and for plugging thief zones in injection wells. There are several generic types, each with its preferred application. In addition, service companies have developed new polymers especially for the oil field.