Cleansorb develops in-situ acidizing system specifically designed to optimize the treatment period in low temperature formations.
The challenges of arctic drilling are vast, and yet the number of projects undertaken in cold climates is on the rise, as operators continue to explore more extreme environments in search of increased production. Many fields in Canada and Russia are rather cool, with formation temperatures in the range of 6°C to 27°C. A number of Cleansorb customers are seeking to employ in-situ acidizing treatments in low temperature formations.
The use of established in-situ acidizing processes based on acid precursors of acetic formic or lactic acid is sub-optimal at the lower end of the temperature range. The established systems require shut-in periods of several days, even if enzymes (or other catalysts for acid generation from the acid precursor) are included in the formulations.
There is a technical need for in-situ acidizing treatments requiring shorter shut-in periods at low formation temperatures. To address this requirement, Cleansorb has developed a new low temperature in-situ acidizing system. The system is based on an acid precursor that is used in combination with various additives. These additives have multiple functions, including acting as catalysts for acid generation, whilst at the same time keeping the products of acidizing in solution.
Cleansorb is committed to engineering products that increase hydrocarbon production and recovery without risk to the environment, and the new low temperature in-situ acidizing system is no exception. All components have excellent environmental acceptability and low toxicity, making them particularly suitable for use in sensitive arctic environments.
Initial tests carried out on behalf of an operator at a University in Russia have been highly encouraging, with significant increases in the permeability of carbonate rock cores being obtained using treatment periods of two days or less.
Field trials of the new low temperature system are expected in Q1 of 2015 in Russia and possibly also Canada. Results to follow.
