METHOD OF MODIFICATION IN OIL RESERVOIRS USING RESIDENT MICROORGANISMS AND NUTRIENT SUPPLEMENTATION THROUGH BIOLOGICAL WETTABILITY ALTERATION

摘要

A method for improving oil recovery includes determining a specific nutrient package or formulation for stimulating and altering resident microorganisms to increase wettability of reservoir rock formations in oil reservoirs. Once determined, the specific nutrient package is applied to the oil reservoir to stimulate the resident microorganisms. The stimulating application is followed by a period of nutrient limitation where the physiology and surface characteristics of the resident microorganisms are altered. Once altered, the resident microorganisms interact with the reservoir rock formations to change the adhesion tension of the reservoir rock formation to a more water wet condition so that oil will flow more freely rather than be bound to the rock surface.

主权项

1. A method of improving oil recovery, comprising the steps of:
applying a specific nutrient formulation to stimulate resident microorganisms in oil reservoir rock formations; limiting availability of the specific nutrient formulation to alter the physiology and surface characteristics of the resident microorganisms; and allowing the altered microorganisms to interact with the reservoir rock formations to change adhesion tension of the reservoir rock formations to a more water wet condition to allow oil to flow more freely.