Abstract
Geomechanics plays a significant role in the decision making process associated with many parts of the E & P business, spanning exploration, appraisal and production activities and supporting field (re-) development, abandonment and well execution phases. Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) has many mature fields that are subject to either secondary or tertiary recovery mechanisms. Geomechanics has been demonstrated to have a significant impact on the productivity, safety and environment. This is most prevalent in EOR projects and the associated waste disposal systems.
The aim of this paper is to demonstrate:
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The range of potential threats and opportunities related to steam and polymer flood in EOR developments
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Fit for purpose procedures that can be utilized for early screening of potential risks
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How an early risk and opportunity register related to the geomechanics behavior of the reservoir due to these developments can be established and classified in a scale of likelihood of occurrence versus impact
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Define fit for purpose data gathering, well and reservoir surveillance plans for mitigation
Such work is needed for a comprehensive identification of field measurements, laboratory tests and well and reservoir monitoring opportunities early in the project development process. Results from a clastic reservoir will be used as an example to illustrate the above.
