The global demand for energy necessitates continuous innovation in oil extraction techniques. Among the most effective methods for increasing hydrocarbon recovery from mature reservoirs is Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), and High Molecular Weight Polyacrylamide (HMW PAM) plays a starring role. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. details how HMW PAM is crucial for polymer flooding, a technique that significantly boosts oil production by altering the properties of injected water.

Polymer flooding involves injecting a water-based solution containing polymers into an oil reservoir. The primary function of the polymer, typically HMW PAM, is to increase the viscosity of the injected water. This increased viscosity is critical for improving the oil-water mobility ratio. In simpler terms, it helps the injected water push the viscous crude oil more effectively through the reservoir towards production wells. Without this viscosity enhancement, the water would tend to bypass the oil, flowing through the most permeable zones of the reservoir, leaving a significant amount of oil behind.

The effectiveness of high molecular weight polyacrylamide oil recovery lies in its unique rheological properties. It exhibits shear-thinning behavior, meaning its viscosity decreases under high shear rates, which is beneficial during injection. However, once inside the reservoir, its high molecular weight allows it to maintain sufficient viscosity to sweep oil effectively. This makes it an ideal candidate for improving oil recovery from reservoirs where conventional waterflooding has become uneconomical. Companies seeking to buy polyacrylamide for oilfield applications often rely on specialized grades that offer consistent performance under reservoir conditions.

Beyond viscosity modification, HMW PAM also contributes to improved sweep efficiency by reducing the reservoir's permeability heterogeneity. It can preferentially block larger pores, forcing the injected fluid into smaller, oil-rich regions that might otherwise be unswept. This targeted action ensures that a more uniform and complete displacement of oil occurs.

NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. recognizes the critical importance of high-quality HMW PAM for the oil and gas industry. Their commitment to producing reliable polymer solutions supports the ongoing efforts to maximize hydrocarbon recovery from existing fields, thereby contributing to global energy security. The strategic use of oilfield polymer flooding chemicals like HMW PAM is key to unlocking the full potential of mature oil reservoirs.