Experiment Protocol Petroleum Engineer in Italy Milan –Free Word Template Download with AI

This Experiment Protocol outlines the procedures for conducting a laboratory-scale simulation of Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (CEOR) techniques. The primary objective is to evaluate the efficiency of surfactant-polymer flooding in reducing interfacial tension and improving sweep efficiency in carbonate rock formations typical of the Po Basin in Northern Italy. As a Petroleum Engineer operating within the regulatory and academic framework of Italy Milan, this experiment aims to contribute to sustainable extraction methods that maximize recovery rates while minimizing environmental impact.

The study focuses on optimizing the injection parameters for a specific surfactant formulation under reservoir conditions mimicking those found in mature oil fields in the Lombardy region. The results will inform field-scale pilot projects and support the transition towards more efficient and environmentally responsible petroleum engineering practices in Italy.

This protocol applies to all personnel involved in the CEOR simulation experiments conducted at the Politecnico di Milano's Energy Research Laboratory. It covers the preparation of core samples, formulation of injection fluids, execution of flooding experiments, data collection, and post-experiment analysis. The procedures are designed to comply with Italian safety regulations (D.Lgs. 81/2008) and international standards for petroleum engineering research.

4.1 Core Sample Preparation

Each core sample will be cleaned using toluene and methanol to remove any residual hydrocarbons. The samples will then be dried in an oven at 60°C for 24 hours. Porosity and permeability will be measured using helium porosimetry and gas permeametry, respectively. The core samples will be saturated with synthetic formation brine under vacuum to ensure complete saturation.

4.2 Initial Saturation

The brine-saturated core samples will be placed in the HPHT core holder. Crude oil will be injected at a constant rate of 1 mL/min until water breakthrough is observed. The core will be maintained at reservoir temperature (80°C) and pressure (15 MPa) to simulate in-situ conditions. The initial oil saturation (Soi) will be calculated based on the volume of oil injected and the pore volume of the core.

4.3 Waterflooding

After establishing initial oil saturation, a waterflood will be conducted using synthetic formation brine at a constant injection rate of 1 mL/min. The waterflood will continue until the water cut reaches 98%. The cumulative oil production and pressure drop across the core will be recorded continuously.

4.4 Surfactant-Polymer Flooding

Following the waterflood, a slug of surfactant-polymer solution will be injected at the same rate. The slug size will be 0.5 pore volumes (PV). The injection will be followed by a chase waterflood using synthetic formation brine until no more oil is produced. The pressure drop, oil production rate, and water cut will be monitored throughout the process.

4.5 Post-Experiment Analysis

After the experiment, the core samples will be extracted from the core holder and analyzed for residual oil saturation using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The produced fluids will be analyzed for surfactant and polymer concentrations to assess retention and degradation.

All experimental data will be recorded using the automated data acquisition system. Key parameters to be monitored include injection pressure, production pressure, flow rate, oil production rate, water cut, and temperature. The data will be analyzed to calculate recovery factors, relative permeability curves, and interfacial tension reduction. Statistical analysis will be performed to determine the significance of the results.

All personnel must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including lab coats, safety glasses, and gloves. Chemical handling procedures must comply with Italian safety regulations. Waste fluids will be collected and disposed of according to local environmental guidelines. The laboratory is equipped with fire suppression systems and emergency showers.

Lead Petroleum Engineer: Oversees the entire experiment, ensures compliance with the protocol, and analyzes the results.
Research Assistants: Prepare core samples, set up equipment, and collect data.
Safety Officer: Monitors safety procedures and ensures compliance with regulations.
Data Analyst: Processes and interprets the experimental data.

This Experiment Protocol provides a comprehensive framework for conducting CEOR simulations in a controlled laboratory environment. By adhering to these procedures, the Petroleum Engineer team in Italy Milan will generate valuable data to enhance oil recovery techniques and support sustainable energy practices. The findings will contribute to the broader understanding of EOR methods and their applicability to Italian reservoirs.