Innovative Preformed Particle Gels for Effective Water Control in Oil and Gas Reservoirs

Summary The excessive production of water in oil and gas reservoirs reveals significant operational challenges, including reduced hydrocarbon recovery and increased equipment degradation. This study investigates the efficacy of preformed particle gels (PPGs) in mitigating water production by sealing water-bearing zones and altering reservoir permeability. Various ecofriendly PPGs were synthesized based on polyacrylamide and polysaccharide polymers using a microwave-assisted free radical polymerization method, grafting acrylamide and its derivatives onto an agar gum backbone. Characterization through Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and rheology confirmed successful gel formation. The performance of these PPGs was evaluated through core flooding experiments, demonstrating that chitosan based PPGs exhibit rapid swelling kinetics in both high-salinity brine and deionized water, withstanding temperatures up to 130°C. Additionally, the eco-friendly synthesis of PPGs ensures sustainability in reservoir applications. Results indicate effective plugging efficiency in fractured models at varied flow rates, although performance diminished at higher injection rates. The obtained results underscore the potential of PPGs, particularly those with tailored properties, to enhance water control strategies in oil and gas reservoirs, ultimately optimizing oil and gas recovery and operational integrity.