Innovative alcohol-based EOR technologies are transforming hydrocarbon recovery through advanced chemical mechanisms and sustainable approaches
In the modern world where energy security has become a priority for many countries, and global oil demand continues to grow, the search for effective intensification methods for hydrocarbon extraction is becoming particularly relevant.
Barrels per day production increase planned by OPEC+ from September 2025 1
Increase in oil displacement coefficient with new alcohol systems
According to OPEC+ decisions, oil production is planned to increase by 547 thousand barrels per day from September 2025, indicating significant pressure on the oil industry 1 . Under these conditions, scientific research is aimed at developing new methods that increase oil reservoir yield without significantly increasing costs. One of the most promising technologies in recent years has become the use of new alcohol systems - innovative chemical solvents capable of significantly improving the efficiency of oil and gas extraction.
The technology of using alcohol systems in oil extraction is based on the unique physicochemical properties of alcohols and their derivatives, which allow modification of key reservoir fluid parameters and interactions between different phases in the oil reservoir.
Alcohols can reduce the attraction force between oil and reservoir rock, promoting the release of oil that was "trapped" in reservoir pores.
Certain types of alcohols can reduce heavy oil viscosity, making it more mobile and easier to displace from the reservoir.
Alcohol systems can change rock surface wettability from oleophilic to hydrophilic, promoting better separation of oil particles from the rock surface.
Polyatomic alcohols and their derivatives can dissolve organic deposits that often cause reduced permeability in the near-wellbore zone.
| Criterion | Traditional Methods (Water Flooding) | Alcohol Systems |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Displacement Coefficient | 0.4-0.6 | 0.6-0.8 |
| Time to Effect Onset | 6-18 months | 2-6 months |
| Interaction with Reservoir Fluid | May form emulsions | Reduces emulsification |
| Environmental Impact | Potential groundwater contamination | Biodegradable components |
In 2023, a group of researchers from the National Technical University conducted a series of laboratory experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of various alcohol systems for intensifying oil extraction. The study aimed to determine the optimal composition of alcohol mixtures for use in specific field conditions.
Oil samples from three different fields with varying properties were selected. Each sample was characterized by density, viscosity, and resin and asphaltene content.
Five types of alcohol systems were chosen for the study: methanol, ethanol, isopropyl, and two types of modified polyalcohols (PG-1 and PG-2).
For each alcohol system, indicators of interfacial tension reduction, changes in oil viscosity, and oil displacement coefficient from reservoir models were measured.
Serial experiments with different concentrations of alcohol additives were conducted to determine optimal ratios.
| Alcohol System Type | Concentration, % | Displacement Coefficient |
|---|---|---|
| Methanol | 15 | 0.52 |
| Ethanol | 15 | 0.58 |
| Isopropyl Alcohol | 15 | 0.61 |
| Polyalcohol PG-1 | 10 | 0.68 |
| Polyalcohol PG-2 | 10 | 0.72 |
| Traditional Water Flooding | - | 0.45 |
Additional Oil Recovery (PG-1)
Additional Oil Recovery (PG-2)
Payback Period (months, PG-1)
Cost Reduction per Barrel (PG-2)
Implementing alcohol displacement oil technologies requires the use of specialized reagents and materials, each performing a specific function in the extraction intensification process.
Form the basis of most modern alcohol systems for oil extraction. Characterized by high polarity and ability to form hydrogen bonds.
Reducing interfacial tension at the "oil-water" and "oil-rock" phase boundaries.
Special surface-active substances that enhance the action of alcohol systems.
Improving wettability of pore channels and facilitating movement of oil particles.
Special additives used to control the physicochemical properties of alcohol systems.
Regulating viscosity and solidification temperature of alcohol compositions.
Auxiliary chemical reagents that prevent undesirable emulsification during oil displacement.
Maintaining optimal rheological regime of reservoir fluid.
Special additives that protect equipment from the aggressive effects of alcohol systems.
Extending the service life of extraction equipment.
Technologies using new alcohol systems open significant prospects for intensifying oil and gas extraction, especially in conditions of growing global demand for energy carriers and the need for oil market stabilization. According to OPEC+ analysis, oil reserves remain at a low level, stimulating the search for new methods to improve extraction efficiency 1 .
Creation of environmentally safe alcohol compositions based on bio-raw materials, capable of biological decomposition in reservoir conditions.
Development of "smart" alcohol systems whose properties can change depending on temperature, pressure, or mineral composition of the reservoir.
Combining alcohol systems with other intensification methods, for example, with thermal or vibrowave impacts on the reservoir.
Implementing alcohol systems in oil production practice allows not only to increase oil extraction but also to optimize energy consumption for field development processes, reduce the cost of extracted oil, and extend economically efficient operation of fields already in the final stage of development. In the long term, this will contribute to stabilizing the global oil market and ensuring energy security in conditions of geopolitical challenges mentioned in OPEC+ analysis 1 .
An important aspect is also that the development and implementation of such technologies occur thanks to the scientific potential of research teams, confirming the key role of scientific research in the development of the energy sector 2 . The future of the oil extraction industry is directly related to further scientific developments and implementation of innovative solutions, among which alcohol systems occupy one of the leading places.
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