Evaluation of Alkali-Surfactant Effectiveness by Single Well Test Pilot in a Malaysian Offshore Field Environment

Abstract

Abstract Angsi field is located offshore Terengganu, Malaysia. It was identified as the candidate for a pilot project to evaluate the effectiveness of chemical enhanced oil recovery (CEOR). Injection of alkali-surfactant (AS) slug was used to improve recovery factor through the reduction of residual oil saturation (Sor). The pilot project utilized single well chemical tracer test technique (SWCTT) to measure Sor change near well bore due to reactions of CEOR process. The pilot results were later used to update the reservoir dynamic model and to support decision making for potential expanded field application. The pilot project faced many challenging technical and operational obstacles: offshore location, high reservoir temperature, sea water as injection water, water softening facilities requirement, and unmanned satellite platform with limited space. In addition, compliance to all Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) requirements is a must, to ensure the pilot operation is carried out in a safe manner. This paper will focus on the overall pilot design, planning and some results. Operational, HSE and quality control will also be discussed as background to the pilot project.