Microfluidics for analysis of solvent-based bitumen recovery methods and rapid measurement of relevant fluid properties

该提案描述了微流控技术在溶剂型沥青分析中的发展和应用 回收方法和相关流体性质的快速测量。工作将直接通知和 改善加拿大石油回收业务，与卡尔加里的森科尔能源公司密切合作。 具体而言，该项目将评估溶剂型沥青回收方法的有效性，此外， 或代替传统原位工艺中的蒸汽。溶剂法有可能大大减少蒸汽 使用，相关的二氧化碳排放量和相关的成本。特别是在低油价环境下， 新的方法至关重要，该项目为评估溶剂战略的潜力带来了新的工具。 工作计划包括针对两个主要目标的两个平行部分。第一个目标是 开发和应用微观模型，以评估溶剂过程中的热和传输动力学。的 第二个目标是开发和应用基于微流体的溶解度和粘度测量， 储层条件下的相关流体混合物。这两个部分最近都有新的功能 在集团内部实现，两者都将独特地告知行业。 森科尔能源是大力支持这一项目通过现金和实物捐助，现在有一个 建立了与研究小组合作的记录。该公司处于独特的有利地位， 充分利用该计划的研究成果和HQP成果。

This proposal describes the development and application of microfluidics for analysis of solvent-based bitumen recovery methods and rapid measurement of relevant fluid properties. The work will directly inform and improve Canadian oil recovery operations, in close partnership with Calgary-based Suncor Energy. Specifically, the project will assess the effectiveness of solvent-based bitumen recovery methods in addition to, or instead of, steam in the traditional in situ process. Solvent processes have potential to greatly reduce steam use, the associated CO2 emissions, and the associated cost. Particularly in a low-oil-price environment such new approaches are essential and this project brings new tools to assess the potential of solvent strategies. The workplan involves two parallel segments targeting the two main objectives. The first objective is to develop and apply micromodels to evaluate the thermal and transport dynamics in solvent processes. The second objective is to develop and apply microfluidic-based measurements of solubility and viscosity for relevant fluid mixtures at reservoir conditions. Both segments are enabled by new capabilities recently achieved within the group, and both will uniquely inform the industry. Suncor Energy is strongly supporting this project through both cash and in-kind contributions, and now has an established track record of collaboration with the research group. The company is uniquely well positioned to leverage the research and HQP outputs of the program.