Advancements in Relative Permeability Modifier Technologies for Sustainable Hydrocarbon Extraction

Abstract Relative Permeability Modifiers (RPMs) have proven to be a crucial technology in optimizing hydrocarbon recovery from reservoirs while minimizing water production. RPMs work by altering the wettability of rock surfaces within the formation, thereby modifying the flow characteristics of fluids through the porous media. The objective of this paper is to introduce a new class of RPMs that promises significant advancements over previous commercial solutions, for use in both sandstone and carbonate reservoirs. To assess the suitability of RPM candidates for water conformance applications, comprehensive laboratory evaluations were conducted to assess their impact on fluid flow properties through porous media of different lithologies. This includes XRD analysis of core samples and conducting core flooding tests to measure changes in relative permeability as a function of pH, superficial velocity, and brine salinity. By comparing pre- and post-treatment results, engineers can gauge the effectiveness of RPM in modifying fluid behavior within the tested samples. In addition, compatibility tests to determine fluid-fluid interactions, and contact angle measurements to examine changes in fluid-solid interactions. Through meticulous lab-scale execution of tests, it was possible to gain valuable insights necessary to make better informed decisions prior to embarking on actual field deployments aimed at mitigating excessive water production issues. The efficacy of these next generation RPM formulations was tested against a diverse set of sandstone and carbonate cores exhibiting air permeabilities spanning two orders of magnitude (0.5-1000 md). These experiments revealed an impressive ability to restrict water influx under varying temperature regimes (up to 275°F). Specifically, lab analysis indicated that the water permeability was effectively reduced in a range between 83 to 93%, albeit with notable sensitivity to certain environmental parameters: formation waters with dissolved acidic gases (pH < 5), hypersaline brines (>200,000 mg/L total dissolved solids), and high superficial velocities. Encouragingly, subsequent measurements confirmed negligible impairment to hydrocarbon transport properties following treatment, yielding average regain ratios exceeding 95% for gas and 70% for oil phases. The results provide a good basis for guiding technology deployment and with setting expectations or criteria for treatment success. The series of laboratory tests performed validated the value proposition of these new generation RPMs and provides the confidence needed to proceed to field deployments. These breakthroughs collectively contribute to a sustainable tomorrow, reducing congenital water treatment at surface, optimizing reservoir performance, increasing operational efficiency, and reducing environmental impact — a multi-dimensional innovative solution critical for sustaining profitability across today’s energy landscape.