Electrical and Thermal Properties of Heavy Oil in Xinjiang Oilfield and the Effect of Water Content on Heavy Oil Temperature Under Radio Frequency Heating

ABSTRACT: Radio frequency (RF) heating technology offers a high-efficiency, low-carbon solution for heavy oil recovery, addressing the high energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with conventional thermal recovery methods in the Xinjiang Oilfield. To evaluate the feasibility of RF heating for efficient heavy oil development and support early pilot implementation, this study investigates the electrical and thermal properties of heavy oil, as well as the effect of water content on temperature variation during RF heating. Results show that FHW118 heavy oil exhibits higher electrical conductivity than FHW114, indicating a greater capacity to absorb RF electromagnetic waves. Thermal diffusivity decreases with increasing temperature, with FHW114 demonstrating superior thermal properties compared to FHW118. Additionally, higher water content enhances electromagnetic wave absorption, leading to increased maximum temperature and heating rate. These findings provide essential insights for optimizing field heating strategies and viscosity reduction processes in heavy oil extraction, thereby facilitating the advancement of RF heating technology in the Xinjiang Oilfield.