Study on the Characteristics of Two-phase Displacement Flow in Micro-mesh Channel of Porous Media

Dongliang Pan; Jianqiang Sun; Haizhen Zhang; Jing Wang; Jie Liu

doi:10.54097/6f52f989

Authors

Dongliang Pan
Jianqiang Sun
Haizhen Zhang
Jing Wang
Jie Liu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/6f52f989

Keywords:

Porous media; two-phase flow; replacement; microchannel; enhance oil recovery.

Abstract

Understanding the displacement flow processes and mechanisms in porous media is fundamental for advancing oil recovery technologies. This study investigates the displacement characteristics of paraffin oil and castor oil in micro-mesh channels using CO₂ gas and distilled water as displacement media. A microfluidic experimental platform was developed to analyze phase distribution, displacement efficiency, and the interplay of interfacial tension and viscosity. Key findings include: (1) Residual oil distribution is governed by flow resistance and interfacial tension. High-resistance regions favor oil retention, while lower interfacial tension promotes dispersed residual droplets, and higher interfacial tension leads to oil accumulation in channel dead zones. (2) Displacement efficiency is influenced by viscosity contrast between oils and interfacial tension between displacement/displaced fluids. Distilled water achieves higher displacement efficiency (1.3× gas) due to stable interfacial morphology, whereas CO₂ exhibits viscous fingering effects. These results provide theoretical insights for optimizing oil recovery strategies in heterogeneous reservoirs.

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