Understanding the mechanics of fluids in fractured rocks during enhanced oil recovery processes

Fluid flow in fractured subsurface porous media is a complex process due to the presence of high-permeability fracture networks. During Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) and geological sequestration of CO2 processes interactions of rocks and fluids need to be understood to optimise the performance of the processes. In chemical flooding and CO2 storage processes, a miscible/immiscible displacement of phases is involved which requires in-depth understanding of rock and fluids interactions. Furthermore, liquid chemicals and gases that are be used to unlock oil from reservoirs may trigger changes in the properties of the medium. In this project, the oil recovery process from fractured reservoirs where the flow channels are complex will be investigated. It is aimed to investigate displacement mechanisms through modelling approaches as well as experimental tools in the laboratory, to conceptualise and deepen our understanding of the interactions of rocks and fluids. The developed models can assist us to optimise different injection schemes to achieve high energy efficiencies in an oil recovery process.

Candidates should have (or expect to achieve) a UK honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) in Petroleum Engineering or Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering with an essential background in fluid mechanics, multi-phase flow and reactive flow.

Knowledge of: Fluid Mechanics, Petroleum Engineering, Numerical Methods, Engineering Mathematics.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

• Apply for Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering
• State name of the lead supervisor as the Name of Proposed Supervisor
• State ‘Self-funded’ as Intended Source of Funding
• State the exact project title on the application form

When applying please ensure all required documents are attached:

• All degree certificates and transcripts (Undergraduate AND Postgraduate MSc-officially translated into English where necessary)
• Detailed CV

Informal inquiries can be made to Dr A Sharifi (amin.sharifi@abdn.ac.uk), with a copy of your curriculum vitae and cover letter. All general enquiries should be directed to the Postgraduate Research School (pgrsadmissions@abdn.ac.uk)