Rheological behavior of alkali-surfactant-polymer/oil emulsion in porous media

Abstract

Based on deep analysis of ASP/oil emulsions flow behavior characteristic, a mathematical description of non-Newtonian emulsion was developed, and variation of rheological behaviors along the percolation flow direction was given. The effects of emulsions rheological behavior on oil recovery were quantity researched by a 2-D positive rhythm profile geological model. The result shows that the high viscosity and reduction of water phase permeability by emulsification can improve low-middle layer flow rate and enhance sweep efficiency, and the enhancement degree is related with emulsification degree. The study result can be used as reference for scheme design and production performance forecast during ASP flooding.

Keywords

alkali-surfactant-polymer system / emulsion / porous medium / non-Newtonian fluid