In this case, catalysts based on transition metals CuFe 2 O 4 , CoFe 2 O 4 and NiFe 2 O 4 were tested for in-situ oil upgrading.
Co-author, Junior Research of Kazan Federal University Muneer A. Suwaid comments, “Currently, aquathermolysis technology is recognized as the main method for improving the quality of heavy oil in-situ. The use of catalysts reduces the content of heavy hydrocarbons and increases the quantity of light hydrocarbons, which leads to a decrease in oil viscosity. At the initial stage, new catalysts developed at Kazan Federal University will be applied in the oilfields of the Republic of Tatarstan with catalytic and non-catalytic aquathermolysis.”
The test showed positive influence on the quality of extracted petroleum, efficiency of transportation, and environmental impact.
Further research will be focused on using the catalysts with water injection.
Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology
Experimental study
Not applicable
Intensification of the steam stimulation process using bimetallic oxide catalysts of MFe2O4 (M = Cu, Co, Ni) for in-situ upgrading and recovery of heavy oil
30-Sep-2021
The authors declare that they do not have any conflict of interest.