An in-situ low-carbon enhanced oil recovery approach applied in high viscous oil reservoir
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Abstract
High heat loss, substantial energy consumption, considerable CO2 emission and low thermal utilization efficiency are main challenges in the thermal-based production methods applied in high viscous oil reservoir. To address these limitations while achieving both high oil recovery and reduced carbon footprint, this perspective systematically investigates an enhanced high viscous oil recovery method that integrates in-situ pyrolysis with downhole electric heater. Laboratory experiments and field applications demonstrate that this novel technology offers multiple advantages over conventional thermal-based methods, such as higher thermal utilization efficiency, lower carbon emissions and reduced energy consumption. In this novel technology, with high temperature in the reservoir, inducing pyrolysis and cracking reactions in high viscous oil, significantly reducing oil viscosity and enhancing oil recovery factor. Thereby, this novel method presents a viable, low-carbon, and efficient pathway for future development of high viscous oil resources.
Document Type: Perspective
Cited as: Zhou, X., Liu, J., Zhao, Y., Zeng, F., Jiang, Q., Zhang, L. An in-situ low-carbon enhanced oil recovery approach applied in high viscous oil reservoir. Advances in Geo-Energy Research, 2025, 18(3): 291-294. https://doi.org/10.46690/ager.2025.12.08
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.46690/ager.2025.12.08
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