Laboratory evaluation to field application of ultrasound: A state-of-the-art review on the effect of ultrasonication on enhanced oil recovery mechanisms

Ultrasonic applications have proven to be successful in the laboratory and in the field. However, a review on the influence of ultrasound on enhanced oil recovery (EOR) mechanisms, is still lacking in the literature. Herein, the state-of-the-art review on the impact of ultrasound on EOR mechanisms is presented. Ultrasound oil recovery mechanisms were identified. Main factors affecting oil recovery mechanisms were elucidated. The effects of ultrasound on EOR mechanisms were clarified. Laboratory and field applications of ultrasound were reviewed. Lastly, hitches encountered in ultrasound EOR have opened new avenues for research and solutions proposed. Experimental findings demonstrate that oil recovery by ultrasound ranges from 5-82% original oil in place, with extra oil recovery occurring between 10–20 minutes of ultrasonication. Oilfield results indicate that oil production increased in the range of 26.5–91%, water cut decreased by 4–28%, the success rate was between 75–90%, and the effect can last for 3–24 months.