Characterization of Mixed Wettability States in Oil Reservoirs by Atomic Force Microscopy

TitleCharacterization of Mixed Wettability States in Oil Reservoirs by Atomic Force Microscopy
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication1997
AuthorsBasu, S., and M. M. Sharma
JournalSPE Journal
Volume2
Issue04
Start Page427
Pagination427-435
Date Published12/1997
ISSN1086-055X
Other NumbersSPE 35572-PA
KeywordsBasic Surface and Colloid Science, Surface Forces, Thin Films, Wettability and Thin Films
Abstract

A new technique is described for directly measuring the capillary pressure required to rupture brine films on mineral surfaces. These measurements provide direct evidence for the creation of mixed-wettability states in oil reservoirs. In addition, the measurement of the critical disjoining pressure allows us to observe systematic variations in wettability as the capillary pressure is increased. The effect of brine salinity, pH, surface charge, and surface curvature have been quantified. Results for two reservoirs, one from Texas (Moutray) and another from Alaska (Prudhoe Bay), are presented.

DOI10.2118/35572-PA