Enhanced oil recovery by improved waterflooding. Second annual report

Energy Resources Co. Inc. is currently operating a pilot polymer improved waterflood of the Storms Pool, a sandstone reservoir in the Illinois Basin. The polymer selected, based on laboratory comparisons of 10 different products under simulated reservoir conditions, is a xanthan-type polysaccharide polymer. Laboratory work included preliminary testing of biocides and oxygen scavengers. Development of the pilot area continued with the completion of the injection facility. Preliminary simulation was begun to determine the effect of polymer adsorption, field-wide drift, and other conditions on eventual production. An injection strategy will be determined based on these results. A complete environmental assessment of the project was made and proper containment and disposal facilities were added to the design of the injection system.