Enhanced Oil Recovery Techniques: A Comprehensive Review

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Winter 1-2026

Abstract

Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques play a critical role in increasing hydrocarbon production from mature reservoirs after the primary and secondary recovery stages. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the major EOR methods, including thermal, gas, chemical, microbial, nanotechnology-assisted, and composite-material techniques. The working principles, reservoir screening criteria, advantages, limitations, and selected field applications of each method are discussed in detail. The review also highlights key technical, economic, and environmental challenges associated with EOR implementation, such as reservoir heterogeneity, chemical degradation, operational cost, and environmental concerns. Furthermore, emerging trends and innovations in the field are examined, including the use of artificial intelligence, digital reservoir monitoring, machine learning, and advanced simulation technologies to improve reservoir characterization, optimize injection strategies, and enhance decision-making processes. This study serves as a concise and up-to-date reference for researchers and industry professionals seeking efficient, sustainable, and economically viable oil recovery solutions to meet future global energy demands.

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