Polymer Thermal Degradation in High-Temperature Reservoirs

Polymer thermal degradation in high-temperature reservoirs is a critical factor to concern during polymer flooding numerical simulation. Based on the continuum assumption, partial differential equations were established to describe polymer viscosity changes. The existing viscosity model was modified to develop the numerical simulation model for polymer thermal degradation in high-temperature oil reservoirs. Results show the modified viscosity model describes the actual physiochemical phenomenon that mass concentration remains constant while viscosity declines during thermal degradation. The modified viscosity model improves the efficiency for polymer thermal degradation simulation and provides theoretical basis for parameter design and risk assessment of polymer flooding projects.