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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Miscible displacement of petroleum

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5098139
A miscible displacement process is described for the recovery of petroleum from a petroleum-bearing formation. The process involves introducing a slug of solvent capable of dissolving formation hydrocarbon and of density greater than water into the upper portion of a reservoir and forcing the solvent through the reservoir to some point lower than the point of introduction by means of a driving fluid. The solvent and extracted fluids are produced from the reservoir at this point. The solvent, being heavier than the driving fluid, will substantially eliminate fingering of the driving fluid through the solvent. In a downward drive, the lighter driving fluid will ride above the heavier solvent, providing a piston-like displacement of the solvent. Aqueous fluids such as water are suitable fluids for displacing the solvent through the reservoir, but any fluid having favorable properties may be used. (12 claims)
Assignee:
Texas Inc
Patent Number(s):
US 3850245
OSTI ID:
5098139
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English