Society of Petroleum Engineers
SPE 31137
Effects of Completion Fluid Loss On Well Productivity
William E. Foxenberg, SPE, OSCA, Inc., Syed A. Ali, SPE, Chevron, U.S.A. Production Co. and Mingjie Ke, SPE,
OSCA, Inc.,
Copyright 1996, Society of Petroleum Engineers, Inc.
This paper was prepared for presentation at the SPE International
Symposium on Formation Damage Control 14-15 February 1996,
Lafayette, Louisiana, U.S.A.
This paper was selected for presentation by an SPE Program
Committee following review of information contained in an abstract
submitted by the author(s). Contents of the paper, as presented, have
not been reviewed by the Society of Petroleum Engineers and are
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Abstract
Laboratory studies and field case histories are presented that
demonstrate enhanced well productivity when selection and
formulation of solids-free, high density completion fluids are
optimized prior to field use. Results of return permeability
studies and compatibility tests between completion fluids and
formation fluids are presented. These results illustrate the
tendency for high density completion fluids to form stable
emulsions with certain crude oils. Studies supporting the
treatment of these fluids with non-emulsifiers, surface tension
reducing surfactants or mutual solvents to reduce formation
damage are discussed. Preliminary data describing unique
chemistry of calcium chloride, calcium bromide and zinc
bromide solutions are provided. These properties influence
recovery of high density fluids from oil or gas formations.
Introduction
The chloride and bromide salts of calcium and zinc are highly
soluble in water. In combination, solutions of up to 19.2
pounds per gallon (ppg) density can be obtained. These solids-
free solutions, commonly referred to as high density (HD)
brines, are widely utilized in completion and work-over
631
operations. The ability to achieve hydrostatic well control
without solids has made HD brines the work horse of the
completion industry. As pure solutions, HD fluids are
inherently stable and relatively compatible with both well
operations and petroleum bearing formations. Nonetheless,
HD brines are most economically utilized when completion
and work-over operations are engineered to minimize fluid
losses to the productive interval. Reduced fluid costs and
enhanced well productivity are the result.
One objective of this paper was to provide experimental data
not previously published and that may impact the interaction
of HD fluids with formation matrix. Load water recovery,
fluid-fluid compatibility and shale/clay stability are areas of
particular interest. Data presented in this paper include: (1)
activity of water (<lw) for various HD solutions, (2) viscosity of
brines as a function of composition and temperature, (3)
surface tension of typical HD brines, and (4) capillary suction
time (CST) after exposure to clay minerals. Core flow studies
using field and Berea cores were conducted to evaluate
recovery of reference fluid (formation water, oil or gas) after
saturation with HD completion fluid. In all core flow studies,
fluid permeability was calculated. Several tests included ion
analysis of the core effluents by inductively coupled plasma
emission spectroscopy (ICP).
Solutions of divalent cations, such as calcium and zinc, form
hydrated coordination complexes with water molecules l . As
the concentration of calcium and zinc in solution reaches the
magnitude of that found in HD brines, the solution chemistry
is not easily defined. Water molecules, tied up as tightly
coordinated complexes, do not act as independently as they
would in low ionic strength or less constrictive, monovalent
salt solutions. For example, a standard blend (three salt) 17
pounds per gallon (ppg) HD completion fluid contains 197
pounds zinc bromide, 234 pounds calcium bromide, 68
pounds calcium chloride and 215 pounds of water - a solution
of 70 weight percent total dissolved solids. Those
unacquainted with high density solutions may be surprised to
find that a barrel of 17 ppg HD brine contains 137 pounds less
water than a barrel of pure water. It also contains 50 I pounds
2 Effects of Completion Fluid Loss On Well Productivity
more dissolved salt. On a molar basis, the 17 ppg HD fluid
contains 2.7 moles of calcium and zinc ions for every 12.0
moles of water - a ratio of only 4.5 molecules of water for
every molecule of calcium and zinc. If one considers only
simple coordination complexes of aqueous calcium and zinc,
i.e., hexahydrates (6 waters) and tetrahydrates (4 waters), it is
apparent that little or no water remains available to act
independently. Defining even simple chemical properties of
this system, such as solution pH, becomes an exercise in
advanced chemistry. Predicting the influence of this unique
chemistry on properties of petroleum bearing formations such
as wettability, capillary pressure, water saturation, osmotic
pressure forces, etc., is nearly impossible.
The osmotic forces exerted on clays by differing activities of
water molecules in HD brine and the crystalline clay particles,
and the role these forces play in formation damage, is an area
of both scientific and economic interest. The effect of HD
brine on fine formation solids has not been adequately
addressed in the literature. While substantial work can be
found with regard to the stability of shale or clay in water and
low density brine solutions, the highly saturated fluids have
not been extensively reported. An important issue concerning
shale or formation fines stability in HD completion fluids is
whether stability is effected by altering the activity of water in
solution. For example, a particular density of HD completion
fluid can be formulated with a number of combinations of zinc
bromide, calcium bromide and calcium chloride. The activity
of water is influenced by this combination, as shown by data
presented in this study. This issue becomes even more critical
as the density (and cost) of the completion fluid rises. The salt
composition significantly impacts the cost of the fluid, which
increases in direct proportion to the amount of calcium
bromide and/or zinc bromide in solution. The compositional
spectrum ranges from calcium chloride saturated fluids on one
end and calcium chloride-free fluids on the other. Therefore,
the question arises, does the difference in salt composition
influence the formation damage potential of the HD fluid?
Particularly relevant is whether these high density brines cause
dispersion and subsequent migration of clay particles and
whether the salt composition can be used to minimize that
effect.
Several authors have published results of permeability tests in
which the compatibility of HD brines with formation matrix
was studied by core flow tests. 2•S Compatibility between
formation water and completion fluid have been studied, in
terms of scaling and salt precipitation. 6 However, completion
fluid-crude oil compatibility and other experimental
techniques used in this study have not been presented. Baijal
and Houchin 7•8 studied the effect of surfactants in high density
brines on the return permeability of Berea and natural cores.
Their flow tests concentrated primarily on the increase in
return permeability and did not study fluid recovery, nor
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SPE31137
emulsion prevention. This study presents laboratory and case
history data demonstrating enhanced well productivity as a
result of treating HD completion fluid with surfactants and/or
mutual solvents. The increased well performance is shown to
be the result of rigorous pre-job planning and evaluation of
brine formulation.
Experimental
Capillary Suction Time Tests. This technique was suggested
by Underdown 9 as a means of testing fluid compatibility with
formation solids. The procedure involves measuring the time
required for a test liquid to permeate a filter cake formed by
the liquid-solid slurry and travel by capillary action between
two sets of electrodes. The ratio of CST for the liquid-solid
mixture to the base liquid CST (no solids) is related to the
permeability of the filter cake, which in turn is a qualitative
indicator of the solid-liquid interaction. For example, a slurry
of water sensitive clays in fresh water shows a high CST ratio
compared to the same solids in an inhibitive fluid such as 3%
KCI. CST tests were performed with commercially obtained,
pure clay minerals. The minerals were crushed, dry sieved and
the fraction passing through a 325 mesh screen were tested.
Modifications to the procedure included comparing CST
results after prolonged exposure at room temperature and at
150°F. The extended exposure time tests were performed in
order to determine whether the CST technique could be used
to identify solid-liquid interactions that may not be
immediate. Results are listed in Table I.
Water Activity. Relative humidity measurements were made
after placing 100 cubic centimeters of test liquid in sealed 4
ounce jars and allowing the system to equilibrate for five
minutes at room temperature. HD brines of various
composition were tested. Water activities were calculated by
calibration of an electro-hygrometer probe with distilled water
to 100% relative humidity. Results are listed in Table 2.
Brine Viscosity. Brine viscosity was measured by the
Ostwald-Cannon-Fenske capillary tube technique.
Measurements were made at different temperatures,
maintained by a constant temperature bath, and a regression
analysis performed to establish the relationship between
viscosity and temperature. Results are presented in Figures 1
through 3.
Surface Tension. A Fisher Scientific Tensiomat Model 21
was used to obtain apparent interfacial surface tension
measurements between HD brine and air. The Model 21 uses a
platinum-iridium ring suspended from a counter-balanced
lever-arm. Results are presented in Table 3.
Fluid-Fluid Compatibility. For the fluid-fluid compatibility
tests, equal volumes of commercial grade or crude oil and HD
brine or acid were added to capped jars, mixed at low shear
SPE 31137 W.E. Foxenberg, Syed A. Ali, Mingjie Ke
and allowed to stand. The mixtures were placed in an oven, set
at 150°F. The mixtures were observed for signs of interaction,
such as emulsion or sludge formation, precipitation of solids,
or phase separation. A small amount of solids, consisting of
either silica flour or magnetite, were added to the aqueous
phase of several tests in order to simulate the incorporation of
fines into the system. The time for phase separation was
noted. Results are presented in Tables 4 and 5.
Core Flow Tests. Several different flow sequences were
used for core flow tests, however, in each case a standard
design permeameter was used, including a stainless steel,
precision, positive displacement pump, stainless steel transfer
cells, Hastelloy triaxial core holder, constant temperature
oven, back-pressure regulator, Hastelloy transfer lines, in-line
sintered 0.5 micron filter element, and plastic collection
vessels. Cores were obtained as 1 inch plugs, cut from a whole
core, unconsolidated samples were frozen prior to plugging,
or, Berea core was used. Reference brine was 3% KCI,
simulated formation water composed of 11 % NaCI + 3% KCI
+ 1% CaCI 2, or Grand Isle (GOM) synthetic formation water.
Several core flow tests included either kerosene or LVT oil as
the oil phase. Nitrogen was used as the gas phase. Reference
brine and completion fluids were filtered through a 0.45
micron membrane filter prior to introduction to the system. A
schematic of the permeameter is presented in Figure 4.
Permeability Test #1. The first permeameter study was
designed as a series of single phase, unidirectional flow tests.
The objective of this study was to ascertain compatibility of
high density fluids with natural sandstone cores by measuring
permeability to HD brine and comparing results to "non-
damaging", low density fluids (3% KCI and 9% CaCI 2). The
flow direction was held constant to eliminate a flow-dynamic
response of the core to the change in flow direction. Phase I
of the study introduced only a single fluid (Table 6, cores lA-
1D), thus, avoiding interaction between test and reference
fluids. Three percent KCl, 9.0 ppg CaCl 2 (9%), a two-salt 18.0
ppg HD fluid (CaBr2-ZnBr2) and a three-salt HD 18.0 ppg
fluid (CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2) were tested. Phase 2 (Table 6,
cores 1E - 1G) compared the HD brines to CaCl 2 brine using
3% KCI used as a reference fluid.
Natural cores were first saturated with brine at room
temperature for 24 hours. The cores were mounted into the
permeameter and an initial permeability to brine was
determined. The cores were then removed from the apparatus
and heat aged in brine at 310°F. After 24 hours, the cores were
cooled to room temperature and final permeability
determined. Initial and final permeabilities were obtained at
room temperature. The flow rate during permeability
measurements was held at 40 cc/hr.
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3
Flow tests 1A-I F used one inch long cores described by
petrographic analysis as follows: 5% - 10% calcareous fossil
fragments, primary porosity predominant, 3% secondary
porosity, rare microporosity (approximately 1%)-mostly
associated with authigenic clay minerals (chlorite and minor
amounts of kaolinite). X-ray diffraction analysis showed the
following composition: 72% quartz, 9% plagioclase, 2%
potassium feldspar, 10% calcite, 5% chlorite, 2% illite and
traces of kaolinite and pyrite. The clay content of these cores
was relatively low and consisted primarily of chlorite, a non-
migratory clay. A Rodessa core was then tested (I G) to
compare permeability results obtained through a clay-rich
sandstone. Rodessa core is a moderately sorted, very fine to
fine-grained, shaly, slightly laminated, lower cretaceous
sandstone. Reported core porosity was 17% and air
permeability was 145 md.
Permeability Test #2. This series of flow tests also evaluated
single phase, brine permeabilities of natural cores. The cores
were exposed to only one fluid. These tests studied the long
term effect of HD brine saturation on a clay-rich sandstone.
Two temperatures were examined, 175°F and 350°F. A
standard blend, 16.5 ppg HD brine (CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr 2) was
considered. The cores were consolidated, very fine-grained,
very silty, shaly sandstones from Plaquemines Parish,
Louisiana (11,240 feet, 27.5% porosity, Kair = 15 md). X-ray
diffraction showed the following minerals: 71 % quartz, 3%
plagioclase feldspars, 8% K-feldspars, 2% calcite, 1% pyrite,
5% kaolinite, 0% chlorite, 4% illite and 6% smectite. The tests
consisted of flowing HD brine through a core at 20 cc/hr,
establishing initial permeability (K;) at temperature, soaking
the core with brine for an extended period of time (at
temperature), and then measuring retained permeability. The
cycle of flow/soak/flow was repeated several times. The
direction of flow was then reversed and a reverse permeability
(K,) determined. Finally, the initial flow direction was re-
established and a final permeability (Kr) determined. Total
exposure time at 175°F was 7 days. The temperature was then
raised to 350°F and flow tests repeated. Effluents from the
core were collected after every 10 cc and analyzed for
concentration of silicon, aluminum, iron and magnesium ions
by ICP. Results of the flow tests are presented in Figures 5
and 6. ICP data showed no change in ion concentration and is
not included here.
Permeability Test #3. Permeability test #3 studied nitrogen
gas flow through a Berea core before and after exposure to
high density brine. Permeability measurements were
conducted at 160°F. Three percent KCI was used as a
reference brine and a standard blend 15.9 ppg HD fluid was
the test brine. A three inch Berea core was saturated with 3%
KCl at room temperature. The core was placed into a Hassler
core holder and heated to 160°F. Nitrogen flowed through the
core with an injection pressure of approximately 4 psi. The
4 Effects of Completion Fluid Loss On Well Productivity
flow rate and pressure differential across the core was
monitored until permeability stabilized. Twenty pore volumes
of 15.9 ppg CaClz-CaBrz-ZnBrz brine were then injected into
the core in the reverse direction and the core shut in for 24
hours. Nitrogen was again flowed through the core in the
original direction and the pressure differential monitored until
stabilized. A plot of permeability versus pore volume output is
presented in Figure 7.
Permeability test #4. Permeability study #4 consisted of a
series of single and two phase flow tests. Natural cores were
obtained from a shallow horizon in Garden Banks, offshore
Gulf of Mexico. Sample cores were taken as frozen plugs and
wrapped in metal sheaths. The cores were saturated with 3%
KCI and initial permeability to reference brine obtained (KiS)
at 110°F. For the two phase flow tests, commercial grade oil
was pumped through the core in the same direction as the
reference brine until irreducible water saturation was reached
and initial permeability to oil was established (KiO). Twenty
pore volumes ofa 13.5 ppg CaClz-CaBrz completion fluid was
then injected through the core in the opposite direction. The
core was shut in at temperature and allowed to soak for 24
hours. The oil was again flowed through the core until a
stabilized, final permeability was attained (Kro). Single phase
flow tests were carried out in the same fashion with the
exception that oil was not introduced.
The first stage of the study tested return permeability of the
brines separately, as single phase tests (Table 7, Cores I and
2). Flow test 3 used LVT oil to establish oil permeability after
saturation with reference brine. When completion fluid was
tested, return permeability to LVT oil was surprisingly low
(30%). Compatibility tests were then conducted with the oil
and 13.5 ppg brine. Based on the emulsified interface
observed in the compatibility tests, kerosene was tested for
compatibility. After favorable results with the kerosene, return
permeability tests were performed using this more compatible
oil. Results of the flow and compatibility tests are presented in
Table 7.
Permeability Test #5. Permeameter study #5 examined
effects of surfactant addition to 15.5 ppg HD brines. Four and
one-half inch long Berea cores were used to establish initial
permeability to synthetic formation water, prepared to
simulate the connate water in a Grand Isle well, offshore Gulf
of Mexico. This water is a high salinity brine with a total
dissolved solids of 286,000 milligrams per liter (mg/l). The
chlorides were 181,000 mg/1. Formation fluid-completion
fluid compatibility tests indicated potential for sodium
chloride precipitation, as described by Ali, et al. 6 Due to a
requirement of 15.5 ppg density, two different HD fluids were
compared for compatibility with connate water and with Berea
core. A standard blend (calcium chloride saturated) 15.5 ppg
CaClz-CaBrz-ZnBrz brine was tested against a two salt
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SPE 31137
(calcium chloride-free) CaBrz-ZnBrz HD brine. According to
fluid compatibility results, the two salt fluid was significantly
more compatible with the high salinity formation water.
Standard blend HD brine 'salted out' NaCI solids at all
volume ratios tested. The two salt blend produced a small
amount of salt precipitate only at high formation water:HD
brine volume ratios.
Core flow tests investigated return permeability of reference
fluid and nitrogen gas after injection of 15.5 ppg fluid and
soaking for 24 hours at 230°F. Two different surfactants were
evaluated as additives to the HD brine. Results of these tests
are presented in Table 8 and in Figures 8 -10. Figures 8 and 9
are HD brine with surfactant. Figure lOis HD brine with no
surfactant.
Discussion
The experimental laboratory data for brine viscosity and water
activity are provided with the expectation that these data may
find use in further research into the compatibility of HD brines
with formation matrix. This information is also useful for
interpreting permeability data of various brine systems. The
dependency of liquid flow rate through a porous medium on
viscosity of the fluid is well established by Darcy's law.
However, the viscosity data of HD brines, as a function of
brine composition and temperature, has not appeared in the
published literature. While not comprehensive, the data
presented in this paper should provide the interested
investigator with a resource. The activity of water in solution
is also a known factor with regard to stability of clays and
shales. However, this data has not previously appeared in the
published literature. Correlation between <lw and surface
tension of HD brine and stability of clays or shales was not
demonstrated by this study, however, presentation of the
experimental data may inspire additional research into this
important area.
Surface tension plays an important role in the wetting action
and recovery of HD brine when lost to productive zones.
Capillary forces and water saturation are affected by the loss
of completion fluids. The high surface tension of HD brines,
compared to under-saturated formation water or monovalent
salt solutions such as sodium chloride and sodium bromide
shown in these data, would be expected to have detrimental
effects on HD fluid recovery. Further research in this area is
needed.
The capillary suction data were, for the most part,
unrevealing. As noted by Underdown 9 , viscosity of the test
fluid impacts the CST results. The high viscosity of HD
brines, in combination with an observed tendency for these
fluid not to wet glass or paper surfaces, preclude this
technique as an important investigative tool for studying the
c1ay-HD brine interaction. The CST data reported here are
SPE31137 WE. Foxenberg, Syed A. Ali, Mingjie Ke
average values of two to three data points, however, it is
important to note that CST reproducibility for brines above
about 13 ppg was not good. The number of CST tests was not
large enough to perform a statistical analysis, however, the
capillary suction technique seems to be of limited value for
studies of HD brine. Having qualified this data, CST data may
indicate an interaction between poorly crystallized kaolinite
clay and all test fluids, except for possibly, fresh water. The
HD brines were particularly active toward these solids,
showing an increase in CST by a factor of up to 30 (Table I).
The reasons for this is not clear, it may be a result of clay
dispersion, a property of the brine such as viscosity, surface
tension, water activity, or, an anomaly of the technique.
It is interesting to note the differences in CST between results
of the various HD blank solutions. These fluids took up to II
times longer than water to travel by capillary force along the
CST paper (Whatman #17). Another interesting comparison is
between three and two salt 16.5 ppg brine blanks. The CST
for the three salt fluid is almost 5 times that of the two salt
fluid. Viscosity difference between these two fluids is
substantial (33cp, 9cp,respectively), surface tension is equal
(60 dynes/cm) and the water activity is different by a factor of
2 (0.18 versus 0.34, respectively). CST data is obviously
influenced by these properties, however, a question raised is
whether the apparent interaction observed during these tests
was a consequence of the differences in the CST response to
the brines or to a difference in the solids after exposure to
brine. A more sophisticated analysis is required to address this
issue.
Results of the core flow tests support the conclusions of Baijal
and Houchin. 6 .7 Formation damage to high density brine was
shown to increase with increasing temperature and exposure
time, and decreasing permeability. There may also be a
relationship between the clay content and formation damage
potential of HD brine. Flow test #1, which introduced HD
brine to the core at room temperature and exposed the cores at
3 10°F for only 24 hours, produced no reduction in
permeability. Tests lA -ID exposed core to only one test
fluid, eliminating fluid-fluid interactions. Tests lA-IF used
clean sandstone cores and 1G used a clayey core. In no case
was formation damage evident. Permeability test 1F was the
only one in the series to show appreciable damage, and then,
only after introducing a dilute brine to a core already saturated
with 18 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 • After 18 ppg HD brine
produced a 107% return permeability, flowing 3% KCl
resulted in a loss of permeability to the extent of 67%. The
damage was speculated to be due to precipitation of zinc
hydroxide, a result of dilution zinc bromide containing HD
brine with under-saturated brine. A weak acid wash (3% KCl
with 1% acetic acid) was then injected to the core, producing a
significant increase in permeability. This result seemed to
support zinc hydroxide as a damage mechanism.
635
5
In a similar manner to Test # I, flow series #2 utilized only HD
brine, avoiding fluid-fluid-interactions. Flow series #2
exposed clayey cores to 16.5 ppg HD brine at 175°F for 7 days
and then at 350°F for an additional 7 days. These tests showed
increasing damage with time, particularly evident at the higher
temperature. When flow was reversed during the 175°F test, a
substantial increase in permeability was produced. This effect
was not seen during the tests conducted at 350°F, where
permeability decreased for each cycle of flow. Analysis of the
effluents for silicon, aluminum, magnesium and iron showed
no significant difference between ion concentrations before
and after flow through the core. Surface tension measurements
were also consistent between pre- and post flow samples. In
the absence of reference fluid in the core, the permeability
reduction is suspected to be due to an interaction between the
HD brine and the core minerals. No evidence was found for
clay migration through the lCP analysis, however,
examination of core matrix by scanning electron microscopy
after similarly conducted flow studies, planned as the next
step in this study, should provide more conclusive evidence.
The fluid-fluid compatibility and permeability tests showed
other interesting results. Some oils were shown to be sensitive
to emulsification with HD brines. As demonstrated in
permeability study #4 and the fluid compatibility tests,
calcium chloride, calcium bromide and zinc bromide fluids
can destabilize crude oils, producing emulsion or sludge. This
destabilization is likely to produce formation damage and is
shown in core flow studies (Flow tests #4). In the case of test
#4, using a compatible oil eliminated the fluid-fluid
incompatibility and produced no damage to the cores.
Flow test # 3 gives an example of the recoverability of HD
brine in a gas well. Although the return permeability to
nitrogen gas was 89%, flow-back of HD completion fluid was
extremely lengthy. As shown in Figure 7, over 20,000 pore
volumes of gas was required before final permeability was
established. It is also interesting to note the very low
permeability of the core to gas when gas flow was initiated
subsequent to saturation with HD brine. Pressure differential
measurements indicated that approximately 50% of the
injection pressure was required to initiate gas flow. This
suggests that HD fluid loss to gas wells can take exceptionally
long times to clean up. Furthermore, flow initiation pressures
can be expected to be quite high.
The data presented in Figures 8-10, demonstrate increased
return permeability obtained by treating HD brine with
surfactant. These data also show how the surfactant can
decrease the pressure required to initiate gas flow. Surfactant
treated HD brine required only 61 % of gas injection pressure
to initiate flow-back of HD brine.
6 Effects of Completion Fluid Loss On Well Productivity
Case Histories
Case History No. 1. A major operation was recently
conducted in Well A, South Marsh Island Field to pull the
existing completion and work-over the pay sand.
After the successful recovery of the production string, the
sand was re-perforated over the same interval using 7 inch
casing guns. The zone was then acid soaked (10% Acetic,
10% HCl, 8% NH 4Cl, plus additives) and gravel packed.
During the operations 600 bbl of 13.0 ppg calcium bromide
was lost to the formation. A HEC pill was spotted across the
perforations to control the fluid loss. Initial production after
the workover was 479 BOPD, 302 MCFD, and 53 BWPD
(16/64 choke, 920 psi FTP, 1700 psi SITP). Subsequent oil
production, however, continually declined to 80-100 BOPD
range with flowing tubing pressures less then 200 psi. A 50
bbl HCl acid soak was bullheaded in an attempt to restore
production. The rates and flowing tubing pressures continued
to decline.
Subsequent laboratory analysis of the crude oil indicated a
high concentration of asphaltenes. Crude/acid compatibility
tests showed a potential sludging problem. Additives were
identified (xylene and asphaltene sludge remover) which
could remove the asphaltene sludge presumed to be present in
the formation and gravel pack due to the acid prepack and
acid soak. Additional testing identified a mutual
solvent/surfactant package that could prevent the sludging
problem and permit acid stimulation of the pay sand. Thus, a
solvent soak/acid stimulation was formulated to remove prior
damage from acid soaks, HEC pill, and completion fluid.
A solvent soak comprised of xylene, sludge remover, and
diesel was pumped. The well was soaked for 12 hr and flowed
back at approximately 165 BOPD rate. Soon thereafter, the
well was stimulated with a treatment comprised of xylene,
15% HCl, 10-2% HCI-HF, 8% NH 4CI, and appropriate
additives. After stimulation the well tested at 116 BOPD, 202
MCFD, and 77 BWPD (15/64 choke, 580 psi FTP, 3100 psi
STP). A subsequent test showed that production declined to
35 BOPD, 41 MCFD, and 64 BWPD (15/64 choke, 250 psi
FTP, 3100 psi SITP).
At this point, a major laboratory study was initiated to
determine if fluid incompatibility was the reason for the
production decline observed after each acid treatment. Four
acid treatments have been performed on the subject well. The
acid systems were: . gravity analysis were performed on the lease crude:
10% Acetic acid containing: 0.2% corrosion
inhibitor, 25 pounds per thousand gallons (pptg)
erythorbic acid, 0.5% surfactant, 5% mutual solvent.
10% HCI containing: 0.2% corrosion inhibitor, 25
pptg erythorbic acid, 50 pptg NTA, 0.5% surfactant,
5% mutual solvent.
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SPE 31137
15% HCl containing: 0.4% corrosion inhibitor, 25
pptg erythorbic acid, 25 pptg NTA, 3% acetic acid,
3% mutual solvent/surfactant package.
10-2% Mud acid (HCl-HF) containing: 0.4%
corrosion inhibitor, 25 pptg erythorbic acid, 25 pptg
NTA, 3% acetic acid, 2% mutual solvent surfactant
package.
Since 600 bbl of CaBrz completion fluid was lost to the pay
sand, the brine was included in the crude compatibility tests.
The brine used was laboratory prepared 13.0 ppg CaBr z.
Laboratory tests were performed with the crude oil from the
subject pay sand and the above-mentioned acid systems along
with laboratory-prepared 13.0 ppg CaBrz completion fluid.
The tests also included the effects of silica fines (400 mesh
silica flour) and iron pipe scale (magnetite scale fines) on the
crude oil and other fluids. Table 4 lists the tests performed and
the results.
The test results indicated that the acid treatment fluids pumped
into the well were overall only marginally incompatible with
the formation crud. Silica and iron fines only slightly altered
the compatibility between the crude and treatment fluids.
However, the incompatibility observed in the laboratory
between the formation crude and CaBrz completion fluid was
severe. The crude/CaBrz incompatibility was surprising,
because it has never been reported before.
Because of the volume of the completion fluid lost to the
formation and its potential degree of incompatibility with the
formation crude, the observed production decline may be due
to an emulsion formed as a result of crude/brine
incompatibility. The volume of the emulsion could be
significant, due to the volume of completion fluid lost to the
formation. It is conceivable, that the volumes of the
succeeding solvent/acid treatments might not have been large
enough to remove all of the emulsion possibly formed deep
within the formation.
Case History No.2. The second case history deals with a
frac-packed completion. The subject oil well is in the Eugene
Island Field, roughly 10,000 ft. with a BHP of 5810 psi. The
zone thickness is 100 ft. A 12.5 ppg CaBrz was selected as a
completion fluid.
Prior to completion, crude/CaBrz compatibility tests and oil
analysis were performed. The paraffin, asphaltene, and API
Low molecular weight paraffin: 28.7%
High molecular weight paraffin: 12.07%
Asphaltenes: 0.13%
API gravity @ 60°F: 34.9
SPE31137 W.E. Foxenberg, Syed A. Ali, Mingjie Ke 7

Compatibility tests were performed using 20 ml each of crude 3. Allen, F.L., Riley, S.M., and Strassner, lE., "Initial Study of
oil and 12.5 ppg CaBr2 completion fluid. The tests also Temperature and Pressure Effects on Formation Damage by
included the addition of different non-emulsifying agents to Completion Fluids", SPE 12488.
the completion fluid. The results are shown in Table 5. 4. 'Riese, W.e. & Riese, A.e., "Prediction of Geochemical
Formation Damage in the Vicksburg Formation of South
Texas", SPE 18132 (Oct. 1988).
Laboratory tests showed that the CaBr2 was incompatible with 5. Riese, A.e., Schechter, R.S., and Riese, W.e., "Orin ins and
the crude oil without the use of non-emulsifying agents. Based Mechanisms of Formation Damage", AAPG Bulletin 72(2), p.
on the laboratory tests, the 12.5 ppg CaBr2 completion fluid 240, (February 1988).
was treated with 10% MS (mutual solvent) and 2% MSS 6. Ali, S.A.: Javora, P.H.; Guenard, l.H.; Kitziger, F.W.; "Test
(mutual solvent/surfactant). The well was successfully High Density Brines for Formation Water Interaction",
completed without any downhole emulsion problems. Post- Petroleum Engineer International, .luly 1994, 31-37.
completion build-up analysis showed a skin of O. It should be 7. Baijal, S.K.; Houchin, L.R.; and Bridges, K.L.. "A Practical
Approach to Prevent Formation Damage by High Density
noted the CaBr2 with additives cannot be reclaimed and has to
Brines During the Completion Process", SPE 21674, Presented
be properly disposed.
at the Production Operations Symposium, Oklahoma City, OK,
April 7-9, 1991.
Conclusions 8. Houchin, L.R.; Baijal, S.K.; and Foxenberg, W.E., "An analysis
Conclusions of this study include: of Formation Damage by Completion Fluids at High
I. High density brine should be pilot tested for compatibility Temperatures", SPE 23143, Presented at the Offshore Europe
with formation crude oils prior to application in the field. Conference, Aberdeen, Sept. 3-6, 1991.
2. Surfactants and mutual solvent enhance compatibility of 9. Underdown, D.R.; Conway, M.W., "Minimize Formation
high density brine with formation fluid. Damage by Rapid/Inexpensive Method of Completion and
Stimulation Fluid Selection", SPE 19432, Presented at the
3. Unique chemical properties of high ionic strength, high
Formation Damage Control Symposium, Lafayette, February
density brine make it difficult to fully recover fluids
22-32, 1990.
injected into producing formations.
4. The interaction between high density brine and formation Sf Metric Conversion Factors
clays is not clearly defined. Further research is required.
bbl x 1.589873 E-OI =ln 3
Acknowledgments cp x 1 E - 00 =N/m 2
We wish to thank the management of OSCA, Inc. and cc x E-06 = m3
Chevron U.S.A., Production Company for permission to dynes/cm x 1 E - 03 =N/m
publish this work. Special thanks go to Misters Lee King, of eF-32) x 5.555555 E - 01 =oC
Dowell Schlumberger and Bernard Franklin of OSCA Inc., ft x 3.048' E-Ol =m
without whose assistance this paper could not have been m. x 2.54' E - 00 =cm
written. Ib x 4.535924 E-OI = kg
1
md x 9.869233 E-04 = ,wn-
References mg x E - 06 = kg
I. Zemaitis, l.R., Clark, D.M., Marshall, R., and Scrivner, N.e.,
ppg x 1.198264 E + 02 = kg/m3
"Handbook of Aqueous Electrolyte Thermodynamics". 1986.
American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Inc. psi x 6.894757 E -00 = kPa
2. Morgenthaler, L.N., "Formation Damage Tests of High Density
Brine Completion Fluids", SPE Prod. Eng., (Nov. 1986), 432, 'Conversion factor is exact
436.

637
8 Effects of Fluid Completion Loss On Well Productivity SPE 31137

Table 1
Capillary Suction Data

CST(sec) CST Ratio

•
Solids Fluid Blank 10 min 24 hr. 72 hr.
(no solids) (70°F) (150°F) (70°F)
Calcium Montmorillinite Water 7 21 59 42
Calcium Montmorillinite 3%KCI 7 5
Calcium Montmorillinite 5%KCI 7 4 5 4
Calcium Montmorillinite 10 ppg NaCI II 5
Calcium Montmorillinite 9 ppg CaCI 2 II 6 5 11
Calcium Montmorillinite 11.6 ppg CaCI 2 27 4
Calcium Montmorillinite 13.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 40 4 5 9
Calcium Montmorillinite 13.0 ppg K-Formate 73 4
Calcium Montmorillinite 14.2 ppg CaBr2 24 7
Calcium Montmorillinite 16.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 79 2 4 5
Calcium Montmorillinite 16.5 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 17 5 6 10

Sodium Montmorillinite Water 7 >86 >86 >86

Sodium Montmorillinite 3%KCI 7 6
Sodium Montmorillinite 5%KCI 7 5 6 4
Sodium Montmorillinite 10 ppg NaCI 11 4
Sodium Montmorillinite 9 ppg CaCI 2 11 5 8 3
Sodium Montmorillinite 11.6 ppg CaCI2 27 3
Sodium Montmorillinite 13.5 CaCI 2-CaBr2 40 2 4 5
Sodium Montmorillinite 13.0 ppg K-Formate 73 3
Sodium Montmorillinite 14.2 ppg CaBr2 24 3
Sodium Montmorillinite 16.5 ppg CaC1 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 79 2 3 2
Sodium Montmorillinite 16.5 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 17 4 8 5
(120 hr) (120hr)
Anorthoclase Water 7 2 3 2
Anorthite Water 7 2 3
Kaolin poorly crystallized Water 7 7 7 5
Kaolin well crystallized Water 7 6 5 3
Anorthoclase 5%KCI 7 2 2
Anorthite 5%KCI 7 2 2 2
Kaolin poorly crystallized 5%KCI 7 10 15 9
Kaolin well crystallized 5%KCI 7 6 6 6
Anorthoclase 9 ppg CaCI 2 II I 2 2
Anorthite 9 ppg CaCI 2 II 2 2 2
Kaolin poorly crystallized 9 ppg CaCI 2 II 13 17 13
Kaolin well crystallized 9 ppg CaCI 2 II 6 10 7
Anorthoclase 13.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 40 3 3 2
Anorthite 13.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 40 5 3 5
Kaolin poorly crystallized 13.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 40 8 21 30
Kaolin well crystallized 13.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 40 8 9 15
Anorthoclase 16.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 79 2 2 2
Anorthite 16.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 79 2 2 2
Kaolin poorly crystallized 16.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 79 5 8 8
Kaolin well crystallized 16.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 79 4 4 3

*CST ratio = time of liquid with solid / time of liquid blank

638
SPE 31137 W. F. Foxenberg, Syed A. Ali, Mingjie Ke 9

Table 2 Table 3
Activity of Water in HD Brine Surface Tension Of HD Brine
(75 OF) (75 OF)

Fluid Water Activity Fluid (dynes/cm)

(3,.)
Water 1.00 Fresh Water 73
9.0 ppg CaCI 2 0.97 11.6 ppg CaCI2 80
10.0 ppg CaCI 2 0.76 13.0 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 94
11.6 ppg CaCI 2 0.39 13.0 ppg CaBr2 86
12.5 ppg NaBr 0.60 14.2 ppg CaBr2 88
10.0 ppg CaBr2 0.89 15.1 ppg CaCI2-CaBr2 101
12.0 ppg CaBr2 0.67 12.5 ppg NaBr 78
14.2 ppg CaBr2 0.34 15.6 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 90
12.0 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 0.34 16.5 ppg CaCI2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 60
13.0 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 0.28 18.0 ppg CaCI2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 77
14.0 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 0.23 16.5 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 60
15.1 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 0.18 18.0 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 69
16.0 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.18 19.2 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 70
16.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.18
17.0 ppg CaCI 2 -CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.18
18.0 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.22
18.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.22
19.2 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.22
16.0 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.33
16.5 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.34
17.0 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.33
18.0 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.30
18.5 ppg CaBr2-ZnBr2 0.26

Table 4
South Marsh Island Crude Sensitivity Tests

Emulsion Acid
Crude Test Fluid Contaminant @..l.hr.: Sludge Remarks

20ml 20 ml 10% Acetic acid + additives 3 ml None Clumpy pad

20ml 20 ml 10% Acetic acid + additives 5% silica flour 2ml None Oil wet silica
20ml 20 ml 10% Acetic acid + additives I % magnetite Iml 4ml White precipitate
20ml 20 ml 10% HCI + additives 8ml None Thin viscous pad
20ml 20 ml 10% HCI + additives 5% silica flour 0.1 ml None Oil wet silica
20ml 20 mll0% HCI + additives 1% magnetite 0.5 ml None Trace iron in oil
20ml 20 ml 15% HCI + additives 0 None Clean break
20ml 20 ml 15% HCl + additives 5% silica flour 0.2ml None Clean silica
20ml 20 ml 15% HCI + additives 1% magnetite 0.5 ml None Trace iron in oil
20ml 20 ml 10-2% Mud Acid + additives 0 None Clean break
20ml 20 ml 10-2% Mud Acid + additives 5% silica flour 0 None Oil wet silica
20ml 20 ml 10-2% Mud Acid + additives 1% magnetite 0.2 ml None Trace iron in oil
20ml 20 ml 13.0 ppg CaBr2 40ml None Tight emulsion
20ml 20 ml 13.0 ppg CaBr2 5% silica flour 2ml None Silica in oil
20ml 20 ml 13.0 ppg CaBr2 1% magnetite 40ml None Tight emulsion

639
10 Effects of Fluid Completion Loss On Well Productivity SPE31137

Table 5
Compatibility Tests
Eugene Island Crude Oil: 12.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2
(1: 1 ratio)
Break-out Time
MSS NE MS 5min 10 min 15 min 30min
0 0 0 0
1% 1% 8% 10% 15%
2% 3% 28% 98% 100%
1% 1% 2% 3% 5%
2% 1% 12% 25% 60%
10% 8% 12% 25% 60%
2% 2% 78% 100% 100% 100%

MSS-Mutual solvent/surfactant package

NE-Non-emulsifier
MS-Mutual solvent (EGMBE)

Table 6
Permeability Test #1
3% KC1; 9 ppg CaCI 2 ; 18 ppg CaBr 2-ZnBr2; 18 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2-ZnBr 2
Unidirectional

Core Fluid K Heat Fluid K Heat Fluid K Fluid K Fluid K

(md) 310°F (md) 310°F (md) (md) (md)
lA KCl 23 Yes KCl 26
IB CaCl 2 10 Yes CaCl 2 12
lC Ca-Zn/Br 42 Yes Ca-Zn/Br 37
1D Ca-Zn/Cl-Br 26 Yes Ca-Zn/Cl-Br 27
IE KCl 43 No CaCl 2 44 Yes CaCl 2 43 KCl 45
IF KCl 14 No Ca-Zn/Br 14 Yes Ca-Zn/Br 15 KCl 10 KCl* 19
IG Ca-Zn/Cl-Br 31 Yes Ca-Zn/Cl-Br 51

* KCl contained 1% acetic acid

640
SPE31137 w. F. Foxenberg, Syed A. Ali, Mingjie Ke II

Table 7
Permeability Test #4
13.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2
(110°F)

KiB = KCI Kio=oil Inject Kro = oil KiB = KCI

Core (md) (md) (reverse) (md) (md) % ofK io % ofK iB

I 4 KCI 4 100
2 42 13.5 ppg 55 131
3 39 20 (LVT oil) 13.5 ppg 6 30
4 40 32 (Kerosene) 13.5 ppg 37 lIS
5 26 30 (Kerosene) KCI 27 90

Compatibility of Brines with Oil

(1:1 volume ratio)
110 of
Fluid System Observation after IS minutes

13.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr2 + LVT Oil 99% breakout, slight emulsion pad at interface
3% KCI + LVT Oil 100% breakout, clean interface
13.5 ppg CaCI 2-CaBr 2 + Kerosene 100% breakout, clean interface
3% KCI + Kerosene 100% breakout, clean interface

Table 8
Permeability Test #5
15.5 ppg HD Brine, Berea Core, 230°F

Core KiBrine KiGas Test Fluid KrBrine KrGas %K

-I

37 15.5 ppg Std 30 80

2 61 15.5 ppg Br 47 77
3 34 15.5 ppg Std + Surf A 33 97
4 33 15.5 ppg Br + Surf B 32 97
5 42 622 15.5 ppg Br + Surf A 660 \06
6 50 710 15.5 ppg Br + Surf B 743 105
7 48 630 15.5 ppg Br 502 80

15.5 ppg Std = CaCI 2-CaBr2 -ZnBr2

15.5 ppg Br = CaBr2-ZnBr2

641
12 Effects of Fluid Completion Loss On Well Productivity SPE 31137

Brine Viscosity vs. Temperature

100
I
~10.0CaC12
I ~- I-
I I
- +.

--
I
I !
1
1
t
I
i
'I
!-+-+-r- ---r-----l---
-r-+-H--------L,--il __
I 11
11.6 CaC12
14.2 CaBr2 i
.--- -.--~-.----
I-- i : i I
+---+----i--t-+-->---r--;--t------+I---II-*-
! 14.8 CaBr2, 40 F lCT I r-
I
!
i I I
i I I I !
I --.-.10.0 NaCi
I

~
I

! I I I
i
I
i
1
I
I I
I
i I ! I I I I i
10
+- ----+- -f:±F
------+~~-+---~+' ~--!_---+-' '.......
-+---J=-1
n-
I" I"
-in-rr
I I I
:: ~- -~-,-~---- I! I ...... I I

_-~--~I-j--!"'-l ~_
I ! I
'iii

~~ t+t- ~ I~ ----ri- lttl

o c. I

.,
u u
:> --- -- -L I I ! I

I IIII~ 1,1'1

- I
_ _ _ j-
1
I
I I: II
I , --r-I--
1 I ~~
c---,.."'.I
I !:
1 I _~~
1

_~~~~ I .~ i ! =+ _ --+-4

===t=l~TT I t "~L~ ~ -l~

0.1
10
---~l- ; l
I i I:
i
I

i 1 !
III

Temperature _OF
!

100
I
I

I
I ~
I
'1

I r 1000

Figure 1

Brine Viscosity vs Temperature

100

~-~~~III -=Hp~j~~~rl-I i iI i. . 1
- - I -lIf-,_13
-
~Br2. 30
.
F lCT

i I - '--~ _ I I: I I I
10 I --l-- _L_ ~ I ~ ~~:-~

----_~--==t,I-rT ~-=r-: - i t---; - ;-; i i e

::
.~
.,U
Q. -________~,_ -~t=t-t-tl- ,~:
-------j~--rl ~-;- L~~-:I
U
:> I I '
I ii, I ,I I I :
I
I ' I I I • i I I I I I I : I

~-==4 :...::.-~-~-'-i-~ : ~-=h~

t~ I~~ tf~
I _ !

:-:===:.-r==--==pn
----~_t---~.
I

=i=lttl~
--I-r-
!

if-----LI I I ti±
i, I' -

I
n_ I ': I _n ___
, j :--1 1 I

---1-- -~f--t-',
I I I I ___ +- I ---l

I! I ! Ii, I I i I
I 1 I

I ! I I'
0.1~----L--__-L~-L-~--i-~----~---~-~--L~~~~~
10 100 1000
Temperature OF
Figure 2

642
SPE31137 W. F. Foxenberg, Syed A. Ali, Mingjie Ke 13

Brine Viscosity vs. Temperature

100 ,
~t-=1
[ _ _ _L-------'.--
_ _ 15.0 Ga02/GaBr2lZnBr2, 40 F Tcr I
I'~
: ,--
_.. , '" '" ___ 16.5 Ga02lGaBr2/ZnBr2, 40 F Tcr -j -

- _._- ~i - - - - - - ---6- 14.5 Ga02lGaBr2lZnBr2, 30F Tcr i :=-i

~ !',J ~ 15.5 Ga02/GaBr2/ZnBr2, 40 F Tcr
I :- :
"

I ~~ i" -1--, I'

I
,I
i r-- ~
I i
'";~ l"-
i
I I I
I
f·---
:

I
I
I

d ,:
-,~

10 - I _-- L-::-j _
f 1- t - i
~ --'------+- - - -
I
I
t---r:== ~:::1_ i
--.....~ "-." ---i--- __ +-lj
~
'iii
:
r "''' "
o ~~"""
-t--lr;-: ' , - '' ,
,

---I- I~~~
Q,

""
U)
:>
I
I
""~
I
1 I
I I-t-I
j- I
!
I I I Iii I I
--

--
--~
i - ! I
, ,
,
' :"

-----y--~---
r------
"+a
-+--,
i

ltJ-I:
I I

------ ~- t-
, ,, -+- -+-----y--L
II ; I
i : I :

I i I I I i :
--+--
I , '
i
0.1
\ I 'I 'I I ! i
I
I i iI i'
10 100 1000
Temperature of
Figure 3

ac Confining
Pressure Pressure

Pressure
Transducer

Core
Spacer

Back Pressure Temperature-

Regulator Controlled Oven

~
il_te_r_ _---,
~ Ruska Receiver
'----_ _--'~ Pump

Note: Cell 1 for drilling fluids, completion fluids or workover fluids

Cell 2 for oil
Schematic of Penneameter
Figure 4

643
14 Effects of Fluid Completion Loss On Well Productivity SPE31137

Permeability Test #2
16.5 ppg Brtne, Louisiana Sandstone, 17SoF

2 _ _ _ _ _ _---+_ _ _ _ _ ~--~--------r~---~ ~-t_----_>_----__'

o 100 200 300 400 500 600 700

Total Producod Volume (ee)

_ _ Ki (inrtia') ...-Kl ....-K2 _ _ K3 -lI-Kr (reverse) _ _ K4 (fina')

Figure 5

Permeability Test #2
18.5 ppg Brine, Louisiana Sandstone, 350°F

~
... E
:a-
."

.....~-

K,-2.2 md

1 ~-------+---------------------------+-------- __----______________ ------~

o 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800

Total Produced Volume (ee)

~Ki (initial) ___ K1 ~K2 -*-K3 _ _ Kr (reverse) ~K04 (final)

Figure 6

644
SPE31137 W, F, Foxenberg, Syed A, Ali, Mingjie Ke 15

Permeability Test #3

350

300
K.=289 md

250
1<.=257 md

~ 200
:s_
=1
....
e- 150

100

50

2,500 5,000 7,500 10.000 12.500 15,000 17,500 20,000 22,500 25,000

Pore Volume
Figure 7

Test Temperature = 23CY'F

1oo,--------------------------------------------,8oo

80 'II

CIl
:" 600
C- :"
'II .........
rn :" "'0
+J
), E
.........
c: 60 'II

....
Q) :" >-
:::
:"
~ 'II
:"
400 :0
rn
0 :" Q)

....
Q) 40 E
....
:::l A B C Q)
CIl
CIl c..
....
Q)
------ 200
c..
20
----------

OLL~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-L~~~~~~O

o 100 200 300 400 500~---=-60::..:0'-----~7.:-00'--

A Initial gas permeability = 0-230 mm
Pressure Differential
B Injection of 15.5 ppg brme
wIth surfactant A .. 230-410 min
Time Lasped (min)
C Final g8S permeability'" 410 - 710 mm
- Permeability
Note· Pora volume of the cor" '" 11 cc

Figure 8

645
16 Effects of Fluid Completion Loss On Well Productivity SPE 31137

Test Temperature = 230'F

100.---------------------------------------------.800
I
\
"

--
I,"
80 :11
:11 600

-
I I)
a. :'1
.11
:11 "0
CO
~
c:
....
a>
60
·1
-E
>-
:!:::
~ 400 .Q
CO
is a>
a>
.... B C E
....
:::J A a>
II)
II) a..
a>
....
a.. 200

o 0
o 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 550 600 650 700
A: Initial gas permeability • 0-230 min
~ - Pressure Differential
B: Injection of 15.5 ppg brine
with surfactant B • 230 • • ,0 min
Time Lasped (min)
C: Final gas permeability" 410 - 710 min - Permeability
Note: Pore volume o( the core· 11 cc

Figure 9

Test Temperature = 230'F

160,----------------------------------------------, 700

140 600

~120

-a.
( ij
500
-"0
:;:::; 100
c:
~
400 >- - E
:!:::
~ 80 :.cCO
is ""
"" 300 a>
E
~
:::J 60 A B " c ....
a>
II)
II)
"" a..
~ 200
a.. 40 ""
\ " ....
\
""
100
20
------.

o 0
o 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 550 600 650
A: Initial gas permeability "' 0-180 min
B: Injection of 15.5 ppg brine· 180 - 300 min
Time Lasped (min) - - Pressure Differential
C: Final gas permeability • 300 - 650 min
Note: Pore volume of the cor. "" 11 cc - Permeability

Figure 10

646