In the relentless pursuit of optimizing oil extraction, researchers have turned to an unconventional ally: electricity. Marat Ya. Khabibullin, a scientist from Ufa State Petroleum Technological University, has been exploring how electric fields can enhance the efficiency of oil recovery from highly clayey formations. His recent study, published in the journal ‘Известия Томского политехнического университета: Инжиниринг георесурсов’ (News of Tomsk Polytechnic University: Engineering of Georesources), sheds light on a promising new method that could revolutionize the energy sector.
The challenge of extracting oil from highly clayey formations is well-known in the industry. These formations, often characterized by low permeability, pose significant obstacles to conventional extraction methods. Khabibullin’s research, however, offers a glimmer of hope. By applying both constant and alternating electric fields, he and his team have demonstrated a significant impact on the physicochemical properties of water and the filtration rate of liquids through these clayey porous media.
The study reveals that an external electric field can alter the pH value and interfacial tension of aqueous electrolytes, making them more effective in displacing oil. “The presence of an external electric field has a significant impact on the resulting value of the pH value and the value of the interfacial tension of aqueous electrolytes at the boundary with the hydrocarbon phase,” Khabibullin explains. This change in properties can increase the permeability of the reservoir, making it easier to extract oil.
One of the most intriguing findings is the role of electroosmotic pressure. The research highlights that in low-permeability, water-saturated reservoirs, electroosmotic and diffusion-osmotic factors dominate over pressure filtration. This means that by applying an electric field, oil can be moved through the porous medium more efficiently. “The presence of electroosmotic movement of oil in various dispersed rocks (sand-silts and clays) under the effect of an external electric field was proven experimentally,” Khabibullin notes.
The practical implications of this research are immense. By using directed electric fields with regulated intensity, it is possible to significantly increase the displacement coefficient of difficult-to-permeate reservoirs, particularly those high in clay content. This could lead to more efficient extraction processes, reducing costs and environmental impact.
The potential commercial impact for the energy sector is clear. As oil reserves in easily accessible formations dwindle, the ability to extract oil from more challenging environments becomes increasingly important. Khabibullin’s work suggests that electric fields could be a game-changer, offering a new tool for enhancing oil recovery and extending the lifespan of existing reservoirs.
As the industry continues to evolve, research like Khabibullin’s will be crucial in shaping future developments. By leveraging the power of electric fields, we may unlock new possibilities in oil extraction, making the process more efficient and sustainable. This innovative approach could pave the way for a new era in the energy sector, where technology and science work hand in hand to meet the world’s energy demands.
