Production of Heavy Oil and Unconventional Oil and Gas

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the technologies applied for the recovery of heavy oil and unconventional hydrocarbon (oil and gas) resources. The worldwide distribution of these resources is presented. The current classification of unconventional oil and gas reservoirs is depicted as well as the latest field development. The processes of horizontal and directional drilling and hydraulic fracturing are revised, including the composition of hydraulic fracturing fluids, proppants, and disposal options for fracturing-fluid flowback. A clear distinction between deep offshore reservoirs and deepwater Arctic oil and gas resources is provided. Finally, operational challenges for the exploitation of these hydrocarbon resources are discussed.