Solvent/heat-assisted recovery processes (SHARP) for heavy oil and bitumen

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The efficient utilization of energy to extract bitumen has been a challenge, which has recently pronounced as a result of low oil prices. SAGD has been practiced in Alberta since the late 90s. However, it is energy intensive and has negative environmental impacts which may not be economically sustainable in a low oil price environment. Reducing the steam required will reduce the volume of treated water and significantly reduce costs. In addition, the environmental impact of steam generation and water usage and treatment will be reduced. It appears that fluctuations in the price of oil have slowed the evolution of bitumen extraction. Recent low oil prices and more stringent regulations may serve as driving forces for the development of low cost, energy efficient, and environmentally friendly processes. Solvent/thermal processes are complex, and many aspects of these methods are not well understood. The utilization of solvents further reduces bitumen viscosity, is less energy intensive, reduces water usage and treatment, and can lead to less emissions. Also, solvent-aided processes have the potential to target oil sands that are less accessible by SAGD. However, there are several challenges that need to be addressed. The proposed research program allows us to conduct fundamental and applied research to address challenges that our industrial partners (seven major oilsands companies) are facing in field- and pilot-scale applications. The aim of the program is to help industry develop economically sustainable bitumen recovery technologies that are less energy intensive and more environmentally friendly. With the potential job creation, the commercialization of the proposed technology will bring a great deal of investment into the Province and benefit all of us both economically and environmentally. The most notable benefits are decrease in the energy consumption, water usage, and emissions, which are well-aligned with the Canada climate change mitigation strategy. The program will provide the opportunity to train strong team of researchers including 4 MSc, 7 PhD, and 8 undergraduate students, and 4 PDFs capable of undertaking a broad range of advanced research endeavors related to oilsands industry.