A comprehensive experimental investigation of low salinity waterflooding potential in Qatar's carbonate reservoirs

Qatar's onshore and offshore hydrocarbon reservoirs are found in carbonate oil fields. The complexity, heterogeneity and wettability of carbonate fields constitute a challenge in oil recovery, leading to low recovery factor. Several improved oil processes have been suggested for carbonates reservoirs but low salinity waterflooding (LSWF) has been at the forefront of recent research due to the success in laboratory and field applications. This work will involve experimental investigation on the potential of LSWF in Qatar's carbonate reservoirs. An in-depth analysis of the mechanisms, the effect and changes on petrophysical and geomechanical properties in LSWF. Coreflooding experiments will be executed using injection water with modified salinities and potential determining ions. Capillary pressure, interfacial tension and wettability changes will be measured to examine the effect on oil recovery during LSWF. Core samples will be photographed with a micro CT scanner, SEM and XRD analysis will be conducted to monitor changes in petrophysical and geomechanical properties of the rock. The results obtained from this work will provide information on factors influencing an increase in oil recovery in LSWF, a deep understanding of the mechanisms involved in oil recovery and effect on the rock properties. Finally, a design of optimal injection water.