Ali Al Behadili

Heriot-Watt University, United Kingdom

Title: Optimization Of Injection Brine Composition And Impact Of Geochemical Reactivity

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Biography

My name is Ali Al-Behadili, and I am a PhD student in the Flow Assurance and Scale Team (FAST) at the Institute of GeoEnergy Engineering at Heriot-Watt University. I commenced my studies in FAST in September 2021. My project research interest includes the effect of geochemical reactivity on the scale problem and the impact on production rate and recovery factor. Furthermore, study the effect of temperature, pressure, pH, and CO2 concentration changes in the aqueous or hydrocarbon phases. I have about 13 (2008-2021) years of industrial experience working as a reservoir and petrophysics engineer in Iraq (Misan Oil Company/ Iraqi Ministry of Oil) as a reservoir engine and petrophysics and formation evaluation engineer. Holds a BSc & MSc in petroleum engineering from the University of Baghdad in 2007 and 2009, respectively.

Abstract

Scale problems pose significant challenges during oilfield production, especially when water flooding is employed. The incompatibility and interaction between formation and injection waters are primary factors leading to the formation of hard sulphate scales, such as Barite (BaSO₄). Conversely, carbonate scales can form due to various factors, including changes in temperature, pressure, pH, and CO₂ concentration in aqueous or hydrocarbon phases. This study aims to assess the influence of CO₂ availability, as well as changes in pH, ionic concentrations, and temperature, on the risks associated with carbonate and sulphate scaling in waterflooded reservoirs where choices regarding injection water composition can be made. In this research, seawater without any dissolved CO₂ is considered as the injection brine. Also, various factors impact the system, including water injection and production well flow rates, flow through the reservoir, and compositional effects arising from the use of different types of seawater used, such as Full Sulphate Seawater (FSSW) and Low Sulphate Seawater (LSSW). Additionally, temperature and the concentration of CO₂ in the oil phase play significant roles in influencing the system dynamics.