Application of bio-surfactants as an effort to enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in Kawengan oil field

Abstract

Kawengan Field has reached the peak of its production and currently is being developed an Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR). In this research bio-surfactants will be used as substance that will be injected into reservoir. Bio- surfactants are as surfactant from microorganisms and can work to reduce interfacial tension (IFT) so that it can be applied in EOR. The other advantages of bio-surfactant are being able to reduce oil viscosity in reservoir temperatures, higher biodegradation rates and low toxicity. This research used Kawengan Field oil samples before and after being given bio-surfactants. In laboratory test, the viscosity and IFT will be measured. Viscosity shows the phase changes and IFT shows bio-surfactants can reduce IFT between water-oil.The aim of this research is to provide an overview of the application of bio-surfactants as a good and viable alternative to expensive chemical surfactants in increasing oil recovery. The addition of bio-surfactants can reduce oil viscosity from from 2,7 cp at 30°C to 0,37 cp at 80°C and IFT 3,91 at 2,5% bio-surfactants concentration.