Experiment Protocol Petroleum Engineer in Japan Kyoto –Free Word Template Download with AI

Principal Investigator: Senior Petroleum Engineer
Site: Subsurface Laboratory, Kyoto University Research Park

This Experiment Protocol outlines the rigorous procedures required for the simulation and analysis of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques tailored specifically for the geological formations found within the Kyoto Basin. While Japan is not traditionally known as a major oil-producing nation, the Kyoto region possesses complex sedimentary basins with significant potential for both residual hydrocarbon extraction and geothermal energy utilization.

The role of the Petroleum Engineer in this context is critical. Unlike conventional extraction in vast fields, operations in Japan require a high degree of precision due to limited surface space, strict environmental regulations, and the proximity of extraction sites to dense urban populations. This protocol is designed to test the efficacy of supercritical CO2 injection to mobilize trapped oil in tight sandstone reservoirs typical of the Kyoto area, while simultaneously assessing the potential for carbon sequestration.

The primary objectives of this experiment are as follows:

• To evaluate the displacement efficiency of supercritical CO2 in core samples extracted from the Kyoto Basin's Miocene formations.
• To analyze the interaction between injected CO2, formation water, and crude oil under high-pressure and high-temperature (HPHT) conditions representative of the local subsurface.
• To ensure that the extraction methods comply with Japan's stringent environmental protection laws and seismic safety standards.
• To provide data that supports the dual-use strategy of energy recovery and carbon capture, aligning with Japan's national energy transition goals.

This protocol applies to all laboratory-based simulation experiments conducted by the Petroleum Engineering team in Kyoto. It covers the preparation of rock core samples, the setup of the high-pressure flow loop, the injection phase, and the post-experiment analysis. It is specifically adapted for the unique lithology of the Kyoto region, which differs significantly from the carbonate reservoirs often studied in the Middle East or North America.

The following equipment and materials are required to execute this protocol:

• Core Samples: Cylindrical rock samples (5 cm diameter, 10 cm length) sourced from boreholes in the Kyoto Basin, specifically targeting the Kamo Group sandstones.
• High-Pressure Core Flood Apparatus: Capable of sustaining pressures up to 30 MPa and temperatures up to 150°C.
• Fluids: Synthetic formation water matching the salinity of Kyoto aquifers, crude oil samples from local test wells, and high-purity CO2.
• Monitoring Sensors: Differential pressure transducers, flow meters, and temperature sensors calibrated to ISO standards.
• Safety Gear: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) compliant with Japanese industrial safety standards, including CO2 detectors.

5.1 Sample Preparation

The Petroleum Engineer must first characterize the core samples. This involves measuring porosity and permeability using helium porosimetry. The samples must be saturated with synthetic formation water to simulate the in-situ conditions of the Kyoto Basin. This step is crucial as the mineral composition of Kyoto sandstones can react with CO2, potentially altering permeability.

5.2 System Setup

The core holder is installed in the high-pressure apparatus. The system is pressurized with nitrogen to check for leaks. Once integrity is confirmed, the confining pressure is set to 20 MPa to simulate the overburden pressure of the target depth in Kyoto. The temperature is gradually increased to 120°C to match the geothermal gradient of the region.

5.3 Injection Phase

Step 1: Inject synthetic crude oil until breakthrough is observed at the outlet. Record the volume injected to determine oil saturation.
Step 2: Initiate the water flood to simulate primary and secondary recovery. Continue until the water cut reaches 98%.
Step 3: Begin the CO2 injection phase. Inject supercritical CO2 at a rate of 1 ml/min. Monitor the differential pressure across the core sample closely.

The Petroleum Engineer must observe for any signs of asphaltene precipitation or mineral dissolution, which are common risks in Japanese sedimentary basins.

5.4 Data Collection

Continuous data logging is required. Parameters to be recorded include:

• Inlet and outlet pressure.
• Flow rate of effluent fluids.
• Volume of oil recovered during the CO2 flood.
• Temperature fluctuations within the core holder.

Given the location in Kyoto, a city known for its cultural heritage and environmental consciousness, safety is paramount.

• CO2 Handling: All CO2 lines must be double-valved. The laboratory must be equipped with automatic ventilation systems triggered by CO2 concentration sensors.
• Waste Disposal: All effluent fluids containing hydrocarbons must be collected in sealed containers and disposed of according to the Kyoto Prefecture Environmental Conservation Ordinance.
• Seismic Monitoring: Although this is a lab experiment, the protocol includes a theoretical assessment of induced seismicity risks for field application, ensuring that injection pressures do not exceed the fracture gradient of the Kyoto Basin formations.

Upon completion of the experiment, the Petroleum Engineer will calculate the Recovery Factor (RF) and compare the oil recovery from the water flood versus the CO2 flood. The results will be analyzed to determine the economic viability of EOR in the Kyoto region. A final report must be submitted detailing the methodology, results, and any deviations from this protocol.

This Experiment Protocol provides a standardized framework for investigating Enhanced Oil Recovery techniques in the unique geological context of Japan's Kyoto Basin. By adhering to these procedures, the Petroleum Engineering team ensures scientific rigor, operational safety, and environmental responsibility. The insights gained from this experiment will contribute to the broader understanding of subsurface resource management in Japan, balancing energy needs with the preservation of the Kyoto environment.