Development of Nanofluid-Based Solvent as a Hybrid Technology for In-Situ Heavy Oil Upgrading During Cyclic Steam...

Area of Science:

• Petroleum Engineering
• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Heavy oil upgrading and recovery face challenges with traditional methods.
• Cyclic Steam Stimulation (CSS) is a common but energy-intensive technique.
• Solvent-based nanofluids offer a potential advancement for in situ upgrading.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate solvent-based nanofluids for in situ heavy oil upgrading during CSS.
• To analyze the properties and performance of nanofluids in heavy oil recovery and quality enhancement.
• To investigate the impact of nanoparticle type, concentration, and surfactant on upgrading efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Laboratory experiments were conducted to assess nanofluid properties and performance.
• Evaluated nanoparticle chemical nature, asphaltene adsorption, and gasification.
• Tested varying nanoparticle and surfactant concentrations in naphtha-based nanofluids.
• Assessed nanofluid performance under dynamic conditions simulating CSS.

Main Results:

• Alumina nanoparticles showed superior asphaltene adsorption (48 mg g⁻¹) and catalytic decomposition at <250 °C.
• Optimal nanofluid (0.05 wt% nanoparticles, 0.05 wt% surfactant) increased API gravity by 5° and reduced viscosity by 90%.
• Nanofluid-assisted CSS recovered 75% of original oil in place, improving API gravity from 11.9° to 34° and reducing viscosity below 100 cP.

Conclusions:

• Solvent-based nanofluids significantly enhance heavy oil recovery and upgrading during CSS.
• Alumina-based nanofluids demonstrate high efficiency in asphaltene adsorption and catalytic conversion.
• Nanofluid technology presents a promising pathway for future heavy oil extraction and quality improvement.