Optimization Analysis of In-Situ Conversion and Displacement in Continental Shale Reservoirs

In the context of growing global energy demands and the need for efficient extraction techniques, this research, based on numerical analysis, addresses the high-energy demands of in situ conversion by introducing a two-stage development strategy. The strategy begins with an initial continuous heating stage, followed by a thermal stabilization stage. It culminates in a hydrocarbon production stage, which is divided into primary recovery and water injection-enhanced recovery. The findings demonstrate that the reservoir temperature continues to increase even after the stop of heating. Consequently, the reactions within the reservoir persist, leading to increased hydrocarbon generation. The heating stage also helps restore reservoir pressure, enabling high production rates of hydrocarbons during the first year of primary recovery. However, natural depletion subsequently occurs, requiring an enhanced oil recovery (EOR) method. While water injection is a viable EOR method, it proves less effective due to high water breakthroughs in the producer well. Additionally, a comprehensive analysis reveals that hydrocarbon generation and production are closely related to the calibration of energy input and the duration of injection. These results underscore the critical importance of precise energy management and injection timing in optimizing hydrocarbon recovery. By enhancing our understanding of the thermal dynamics and reaction kinetics within the reservoir, this research contributes to the development of more efficient and sustainable extraction technologies, ultimately improving the feasibility of commercial shale oil production.