Effect of mixing method on the rheokinetics of pickering emulsified gel system used as disproportionate permeability reducer

The use of emulsified (pickering emulsion) gel system as a disproportionate permeability reducer (DPR) in oil reserves is a very efficient option for reducing excess water production. The breaking of emulsion system and gelation of the separated gelant are the most important aspects in designing the DPR system. The proper adjustment of the gelation time ensures the proper placement of the DPR system in the reservoir and prevents the gelation in the tubing. Different studies present the effect of mixing time, temperature, etc. on the rheology of the emulsion systems. This research work is the first account of the effect of mixing method on the rheology of the developed emulsified gel system. All the rheological studies are performed at 25 °C, 45 °C, 65 °C and 95 °C. Three mixing methods were tested, i.e. methods I, II and III. Mixing method III presents good 24-h and 48-h gel strength, i.e. 400.44 Pa and 1484.53 Pa respectively. The gelation time of the emulsified gel prepared by mixing method III is 11.11 h, which is sufficient for proper placement of the gel in the reservoir. Method III was found to be the most appropriate one in terms of gelation time, gel strength and ease in mixing. Graphical abstrac[Figure not available: see fulltext.].