Critical review on the numerical modeling of in-situ microbial enhanced oil recovery processes

Abstract

Due to its environment-friendliness and low operating cost, the microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) technology has shown potential as an alternative to conventional enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques. In spite of its numerous benefits, MEOR is not widely implemented due to the uncertainties associated with field deployment. Numerical models are important tools for minimizing the uncertainties and optimizing the operating conditions. This review presents the status and progress on the application of numerical models in solving the shortcomings of the MEOR process. Numerical methods provide the kinetic models for describing bacterial growth, affected by reservoir conditions, such as temperature, pH, and salinity. Various MEOR technologies have also been investigated to explain the corresponding mechanisms and the effects of environmental parameters. The mathematical models for permeability reduction and relative permeability change are explained. Simulation studies for MEOR processes using biofilm, biopolymer, and biosurfactant are mainly discussed. Additionally, numerical models for biogenic gas production, hydrocarbon degradation and soluble polymer process are discussed. This review presents the advances in MEOR simulations with various mechanisms, and suggests a direction for future simulation researches.