METHOD FOR TREATING A TAR SAND RESERVOIR TO ENHANCE PETROLEUM PRODUCTION BY CYCLIC STEAM STIMULATION

摘要

Abstract of the InventionA method for conditioning the virgin drainage area of a tarsand formation that is penetrated by a well for enhanced petroleumproduction by cyclic steam stimulation is described. The methodcomprises fracturing the drainage area by injection of liquid carbondioxide. While carbon dioxide is still in place within theformation, steam is injected into the formation. After a suitablesoaking period, the well is opened to production. This methodachieves better petroleum recovery than conventional huff-puff steamstimulation techniques.