Formation resistivity variation due to steam flooding; a log study

Abstract

Abstract An investigation of the pre- and poststeam resistivity logs, in a production pattern in a heavy-oil field in Southern California, shows that the formation resistivity in steamed formations decreases by a factor of two to three. Shales as well as sands are affected by the steam flood. The observed drop in the resistivity of the reservoir correlates well with the increase in temperature. The study shows the potential of using resistivity variations to map and monitor thermal enhanced oil recovery process.