where_not_to_use_it

SCIHOW would be effective in any unconsolidated sandstone reservoir containing oil that is mobile at reservoir conditions.

There are two exceptions to avoid:

1. A zone with a gas cap or evidence that solution gas has a tendency to break-out in the reservoir. Foamy heavy oil, although compressible, is not problematic for SCIHOW as the micro-bubbles remain intact until exposed to atmospheric pressure and temperatures well above reservoir temperature.

2. A zone with active bottom water as depicted in the image. Water breakthrough occurs in six to twelve months. Successful SCIHOW is performed at maximum drawdown. Maximum drawdown accelerates breakthrough in these reservoirs. Also, with the wellbore positioned near the top of the oil pay, SCIHOW wells would only have access to 1 or 2 meters of oil bearing pay.