Unlocking Production and Revenue with Single Phase Retarded Acid - Results from the First Deployment Phase in an Onshore Field of Middle East
Javier Leguizamon, Shrihari Kelkar, Timothy I. Morrow, Eva Sanchez, Ruben Albarracin, Yugal Kishore, Bilal Ahmad, Sameer Punapala, Amit Kumar, Zeeshan Ahmad, Ghansham Raja, Mostafa M. Marie, Muhammad Usman Haider Choudhary
Abstract
Abstract This paper presents the results of the initial deployment phase of a novel stimulation fluid technology known as Single Phase Retarded Acid (SPRA). The objective was to assess its effectiveness in enhancing well performance across a range of well types—oil producers, gas producers, and water injectors—completed in moderate permeability reservoirs. The study aimed to compare SPRA's performance against conventional acid systems in terms of productivity/injectivity gains, treatment longevity, and overall economic impact. The deployment was carried out in multiple fields, encompassing a representative cross-section of well types of predominantly moderate permeability. A critical part of the process involved extensive laboratory testing, primarily Pore Volume to breakthrough (PVbt), to screen the most suitable SPRA formulations available in the market. These tests provided insight into the acid's wormhole propagation characteristics and reaction retardation behavior. Treatments were designed based on well-specific parameters adhering to consistent pumping schedules ensuring comparability. Pre- and post-stimulation data were gathered through productivity & injectivity monitoring, pressure transient analysis, and well surveillance data. A comparative economic analysis was also conducted to quantify incremental value generation. Field results demonstrated consistent and notable improvements in well performance following SPRA treatments. Oil and gas producers exhibited significant increases in productivity index (PI), with production enhancements sustained for longer durations than comparable wells treated with conventional acid systems. Water injection wells showed marked improvements in injectivity, accompanied by greater stability and reduced fall-off in performance. Diagnostic data indicated deeper stimulation penetration and improved acid placement, contributing to more effective and efficient wormholes propagation. The economic analysis revealed substantial revenue uplift and reduced the need for re-stimulation, underscoring the technology's potential for improving asset value. Additional value was identified from the technology in other aspects of the stimulation, like potential self-diversion and dosage reduction. This is the first documented field-scale deployment of SPRA technology across multiple well types. The combination of lab-based PVbt screening and field implementation offers a novel, data-driven approach to acid system selection and treatment design. SPRA demonstrated flexibility across various reservoir conditions while delivering superior and sustained well performance. These results position the technology as a promising alternative for wider application in moderate permeability formations.