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In Situ Combustion: A Comprehensive Review of the Current State of Knowledge

Author

Listed:
  • Juan D. Antolinez

    (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E3, Canada)

  • Rahman Miri

    (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E3, Canada)

  • Alireza Nouri

    (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E3, Canada)

Abstract

In situ combustion or fire flooding is a promising enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technique designed to produce heavy oils and bitumen. This method involves the in-place heating and combustion of hydrocarbons, resulting in reduced viscosity and increased mobility for improved flow toward the production wellbore. Despite its potential, widespread commercial implementation of in situ combustion has been hindered due to technical and economic challenges like inadequate project design and improper reservoir selection. This literature review paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of in situ combustion by addressing its principles, historical development, combustion processes, underlying kinetics, and testing methods. Additionally, the review tackles existing gaps in the literature, as well as the challenges associated with modeling and implementation in field applications. It also suggests solutions drawn from historical field experiences of the technology. Finally, the review paper proposes comprehensive screening guidelines derived from various literature sources for the implementation of in situ combustion. This framework underscores the technique’s potential for efficient and sustainable hydrocarbon extraction, shaping its future as a transformative enhanced oil recovery technology.

Suggested Citation

  • Juan D. Antolinez & Rahman Miri & Alireza Nouri, 2023. "In Situ Combustion: A Comprehensive Review of the Current State of Knowledge," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(17), pages 1-27, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:17:p:6306-:d:1229033
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Kapadia, Punitkumar R. & Wang, Jingyi (Jacky) & Kallos, Michael S. & Gates, Ian D., 2013. "Practical process design for in situ gasification of bitumen," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 107(C), pages 281-296.
    2. Yuhao Zhu & Kewen Li & Changwei Liu & Mahlalela Bhekumuzi Mgijimi, 2019. "Geothermal Power Production from Abandoned Oil Reservoirs Using In Situ Combustion Technology," Energies, MDPI, vol. 12(23), pages 1-21, November.
    3. Cheng, Wen-Long & Li, Tong-Tong & Nian, Yong-Le & Xie, Kun, 2014. "Evaluation of working fluids for geothermal power generation from abandoned oil wells," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 118(C), pages 238-245.
    4. Davis, Adelina P. & Michaelides, Efstathios E., 2009. "Geothermal power production from abandoned oil wells," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 34(7), pages 866-872.
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