Visualization of Single and Multiphase Flow in Porous Media

Unconventional hydrocarbon require novel technologies to improve the recovery factor of the vast reserves in North America. An alternative to increase the reserves is enhanced oil recovery (EOR). EOR is a technique that reduce capillary effects and/or improve the mobility ratio by the injection of materials not normally present in the reservoir. This summer research project aims the mechanism understanding of multiphase flow in porous media using in situ visualization. The research activities include: (I) laboratory training, (II) laboratory-scale visualization of single and multiphase flow, (III) data collection and processing, and (IV) results analysis. The expected outcome will be a better understanding of the defined system in order to evaluate the potential results for a field test.

Faculty Supervisor:

Harvey Yarranton

Student:

Partner:

Stanford University

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Calgary

Program: