METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR SUBTERRANEAN FLUID SEPARATION AND REMOVAL

摘要

A method and an apparatus for producing a liquid-phase hydrocarbon fluid (50) from a producing formation (10) are provided. The method includes moving a continuous loop of absorbent material (20) through a well (12), which is disposed in the formation (10). The absorbent material (20) absorbs the hydrocarbon fluid (50) in the well (12) without absorbing a substantial amount of water in the well (12). The method further includes removing the hydrocarbon fluid (50) from the absorbent material (20). Likewise, the apparatus includes a continuous loop of absorbent material (20) configured to absorb hydrocarbon fluid (50) without absorbing a substantial amount of water. The apparatus further includes a drive assembly (22) configured to move the absorbent material (20) through a well (12) disposed in the formation (10). Additionally, the apparatus includes a collection assembly (32) configured to remove the hydrocarbon fluid (50) from the absorbent material (20). Furthermore, alternative apparatus embodiments with their respective methods, similar to those listed above, are additionally provided. The absorbent material (20) found in all embodiments may be hydrophobic or hydrophilic.