A NEW POLYMER APPROACH APPLICABLE FOR THE CONTROL OF WATER PRODUCTION

Abstract

A water control system has been developed that is able to selectively impair unwanted water production without inhibiting oil or gas recovery. This new system has been developed using microgel technology. Microgels are partially solvated, crosslinked polymer particles, less than 1 mm in size when dispersed in a hydrocarbon. When fully solvated in water, they expand to several times their original size. These gels are designed to address water coning and breakthrough due to highly permeable streaks or sections. These gels have a tendency to adsorb onto formation material, ultimately forming strong hydrophilic films. The film thickness is regulated by the nature of the microgel and the type of fluid in contact with the film. In a water-rich environment, the film is at its most swollen state and imposes the greatest drag forces on the flowing water. In a hydrocarbon-rich environment, the film shrinks to its smallest size, minimizing its effects on oil or gas production.