BASF SE (Ludwigshafen, Germany) announced that its high-molecular-weight polymer and polymer-injection technologies for oil recovery (EOR) were selected to extend the life of a major oilfield in Argentina. The design, supply, installation and commissioning of five modular polymer-injection units were previously successfully completed in close collaboration with the operator. These units can minimize mechanical degradation of the polymer used in the EOR process and are part of chemical flooding projects to help increase oil recovery rates.
One of five successfully installed and commissioned modular polymer-injection units in Argentina (Source: BASF)
BASF combines standard and high-performance polymers and surfactants into EOR formulations which are tailored to specific field conditions. “A key success factor for chemical EOR projects is the multifaceted partnership with the operator throughout the life of the project,” said Damien Caby, Senior Vice President, Oilfield Chemicals and Mining Solutions, BASF. “This is where our lab-to-well chemical solutions make a difference.”
In such a polymer flooding project, hydration and injection of the polymer solution with minimal mechanical degradation is essential. “The modular polymer dissolution units were designed using BASF’s vast experience in field hydration. They preserve the polymer chains and are extremely robust. The units operate remotely with minimal maintenance requirements to ensure continuous operation,” said Michael Bueschel, responsible for the enhanced oil recovery business at BASF. “The project in Argentina had a very tight schedule. We were able to meet the very challenging deadlines, while fully complying with the budget. Especially in the final phase of this project, our on-site field support was crucial for the flawless commissioning of the injection units.”
Argentina is pursuing enhanced oil recovery projects in various regions of the country. These polymer flood projects involve supply of BASF’s high molecular weight polymer (HPAM) and polymer injection units.