Carbonate reservoirs account for over 60% of the world’s oil reserves. Acid stimulation, whether through matrix stimulation or acid fracturing, is a well-established method to enhance production in these reservoirs. Recent advancements have significantly improved acid stimulation techniques. These include completion systems specifically designed for acid stimulation and diversion, as well as the use of fluid technologies such as Single-Phase Retarded Acids (SPRAs).
Completion systems are designed to maximise wellbore and reservoir contact, thereby enhancing production profiles. Various chemical and mechanical diversion techniques can further optimise acid stimulation, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages. However, selecting the most effective completion system and stimulation technique for a given application remains a challenge.
SPRAs address the limitations of conventional hydrochloric and emulsified acids by offering high dissolving power, thermal stability, reduced formation damage, and improved compatibility with diverters and friction reducers. Thus, evaluating the benefits and challenges of SPRAs in field operations is essential.
Alongside recent advancements in completion systems and SPRAs, fluid placement remains equally important. Several fluid placement simulators are available in the industry, with some outperforming others. However, accurately modelling the dynamic effects of diverters remains a challenge. A simulator capable of representing these dynamic effects is essential for effective fluid placement.
Additionally, most carbonate stimulation techniques require post-stimulation flaring, which directly contributes to carbon emissions. With the growing focus on sustainability and climate impact, developing and utilising stimulation techniques that minimise environmental impact has become imperative.
This workshop will spotlight recent advancements in carbonate reservoir stimulation and provide a platform for sharing experiences, challenges, and lessons learned from field applications. Further, with the advent of Artificial Intelligence and new digital advancements, opportunities for the application of these technologies in stimulation optimisation and post-stim analysis will be discussed in the workshop.