Effect of fluid properties on oil shale in-situ conversion performance with fracturing

Abstract

This study studies the effect of flow and thermal transfer properties of fluids with varying densities, viscosities, and thermal conductivities on the performance of oil shale in-situ conversion process based on multi-physics coupling simulation. Results indicate that thermal convection primarily governs the heat transfer pro?cess in oil shale. Consequently, to enhance the pyrolytic effects, fluids possessing high density, low viscosity and superior thermal conductivity are recommended. This research thus provides a foundational understanding for the selection of fluid properties in the in-situ extraction of oil shale.