Disproportionate Permeability Reduction Is Not a Panacea

Abstract

Summary In this paper, we discuss experimental and theoretical studies on the effects of disproportionate permeability reduction (DPR) (i.e., the ability to reduce relative permeability to water more than to oil). The theoretical part discusses DPR effects by simple analytical arguments, supported by simulations. DPR causes buildup of water saturation in the treated zone to accommodate the water/oil ratio, Fwo, delivered by the reservoir. Core flooding experiments were also carried out, with a DPR gel placed in one half of the core. There is excellent agreement between theory and core flooding results. It was observed that the water saturation in the treated zone increased. Saturation profiles were measured with a CT scanner and is well matched by simulation.