Water and Oil Volume Measurement Using UV–Visible Spectroscopy

Abstract

Fluid saturation in relative permeability experiments is typically determined by volumetric or gravimetric measurements, as well as in-situ saturation monitoring (ISSM). Gravimetric measurements tend to have larger error due to grain loss. The conventional volumetric method used can be a challenge because produced volumes for oil and water must be separated and measured manually. ISSM method is also a costly technique. In this study, an UV–visible spectroscopy was used to continuously and cost effectively measure oil and water volumes. A water-oil unsteady state relative permeability was performed to investigate the feasibility of calculating oil and water volumes using UV–visible spectroscopy. UV–visible spectroscopy is a quantitative technique in analytical chemistry to determine concentrations of known solutes. A UV–visible spectroscope was located in the flow line immediately after the core holder and used to quantify fluid volumes (oil and water) produced from a core sample during unsteady state relative permeability study. A volumetric separator was also used to compare production volumes obtained from UV–visible spectroscope. The relative permeabilities were calculated using JBN method from both volumetric and UV-visible spectroscope measurements and then history matched with Sendra (PRORES AS). The final oil volume produced, oil and water relative permeability curves obtained from UV–visible spectroscope measurements were in good agreement with volumetric measurements. The Corey relative permeability curves simulated from Sendra also were closely matched with analytical relative permeability curves obtained using volume measurements from volumetric and UV–visible spectroscope data. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) on post relative permeability experiment was also in good agreement with UV–visible spectroscope measurement. UV–visible spectroscopy was also used to measure the breakthrough time of the injected fluid. Breakthrough time estimated using in-line UV–visible spectrophotometer was 0.634 PVI compared to 0.617 and 0.673 PVI from pressure data and volumetric observations. Graphic Abstract