Measuring CO₂ Minimum Miscibility Pressures: Slim-Tube or Rising-Bubble Method?

Abstract

Determinations of carbon dioxide minimum miscibility pressures (MMP) using a slim-tube apparatus were compared with those using a rising-bubble apparatus (RBA). MMPs were determined for 12 different oils, with gravities varying from 34 to 51 °API. The results were found to compare very well when using a specific criterion for the slim-tube MMP. Although the slim-tube method is often referred to as the industry standard, there is no standard design, no standard operating procedure, and no standard criterion for determining MMPs with the slim tube. It is shown that the RBA is faster and more reliable than the slim tube for determining MMP. Bubble behavior is described for both the vaporizing and condensing gas processes.