RMOTC will play a significant role in continued enhanced oil recovery technology development and field demonstration.  A 2001 scoping engineering study on Naval Petroleum Reserve No. 3’s (NPR-3) enhanced oil recovery potential as well as more recent studies indicate substantial opportunities for project partners to explore technologies designed to extend resources beyond their economic life under conventional production. RMOTC also is a key participant in a recent state-sponsored initiative in increased oil recovery research and development.

Many EOR methods have been used and field tested at Teapot Dome. The reservoirs, equipment and facilities necessary to support various EOR methods are available for field tests. Past and current projects implemented at NPR-3 include:

• Water Flood
• Steam Flood
• In-situ Combustion
• Polymer-enhanced Water Flood
• Surfactant Soak
• Acoustical Stimulation
• Microbial
• Natural Gas “Huff-n-Puff”

RMOTC staff has extensive experience in gas injection for pressure maintenance and enhanced oil recovery operations.  NPR-3 has the core characteristics needed for successful long-term activity in enhanced oil recovery projects.

Please visit our Library for more information on Enhanced Oil Recovery at RMOTC.