Scientist Seeks Ways To Squeeze More Oil Out Of Existing Wells

Lewis Brown continues to devote much of his more than 40 years in petroleum microbiology figuring out how to squeeze more petroleum out of abandoned or soon-to-be-abandoned oil fields.

The Mississippi State researcher already has extended the life of one field by 17 years. That may sound far-fetched for those unfamiliar with his ongoing research that involves the forced growth of oil-chasing microbes used to redirect injected water that, in turn, sweeps once-inaccessible oil from old wells into production.
It’s no surprise petroleum industry insiders from around the world have been contacting Brown about his research. Through private and public funding, more than $7 million has been devoted to Brown’s research related to his oil recovery method. He currently is negotiating with companies from the Middle East to Great Britain interested in applying his process.

Historically, few in the industry had expertise related to microbiology, Brown explained. While much field research had focused since the 1940s on “microbial enhanced oil recovery” –known commonly by the acronym MEOR–few in the industry accepted the associated methodology for fear of plugging the wells. The few trials that were conducted didn’t last long enough to determine any long-term effects associated with the process, he explained.

The difference between Brown’s method, called microbial permeability profile modification, and most MEOR methods is that Brown only injects plant nutrients. Most MEOR processes involve injecting microorganisms.

By feeding only indigenous microbes in the oil-bearing formations, Brown avoids problems that can plug the wells. While limiting the amount of environmentally friendly nutrients limits their growth, it successfully alters the paths of injected water used to sweep the hiding oil from previously untouched areas.

Science Daily