Feasibility study of reservoir monitoring using the induced polarization effect associated with nanoparticles

The ability to monitor reservoir behavior over the course of production is necessary for optimization of production performance and the development of production strategies. This goal can be achieved by geophysical monitoring of the fluid propagation within the reservoir. Electromagnetic methods represent an important technique for geophysical monitoring of reservoirs, because they can distinguish between hydrocarbons and saline water based on their differing resistivities. The induced polarization (IP) method can be used to detect additional electrical property contrasts between the fluids and thus can increase the method’s sensitivity to the differing fluids. This chapter considers an application of nanoparticles for reservoir monitoring in order to enhance the electrical conductivity contrast and the IP responses associated with the oil–water interface within the reservoir.