Scientific research, aimed at improving the efficiency of oil and gas production at the country’s mature fields, continues in Turkmenistan. Specialists at the Nebitgazylmytaslama Institute have developed and refined methods for stimulating productive formations, which will reduce water cuts and increase well productivity.

According to specialists, long-developed fields, particularly Goturdepe and Barsagelmez, are experiencing a decrease in reservoir pressure, an increase in formation water influx and the formation of sand plugs and asphaltene-resin-paraffin deposits. These processes significantly complicate oil production and lead to a decrease in well flow rates.

During the research, the staff at the Reservoir Stimulation Laboratory collected and analyzed production data on the technologies used and proposed new solutions to improve well efficiency.

Particular attention was paid to the use of locally available chemicals. Scientists conducted laboratory tests of a composition based on bentonite clay, a hydrophobic additive and a hydrocarbon liquid. Pyrolysis oil, a by-product of polymer production at the Kiyanly plant, was used as a hydrophobic component.

According to the researchers, the use of a hydrophobized bentonite suspension effectively limits formation water ingress while maintaining satisfactory oil flow rates. The best results can be achieved with a specific ratio of the composition’s components.

The developed technology has already undergone laboratory testing, and a patent application for the new composition has been submitted to the State Intellectual Property Service of Turkmenistan.

The results of the research were successfully presented and defended in December of last year. Based on the research findings, proposals for the adoption of improved technologies in the country’s oil and gas production have been developed.