Interreservoir

Interreservoir is a term used to describe the interaction or connection between two or more distinct reservoirs. These reservoirs can be natural geological formations containing fluids like oil, gas, or water, or they can be artificial storage facilities. The concept of interreservoir interaction is crucial in various fields, including petroleum engineering, hydrogeology, and environmental science.

In petroleum engineering, interreservoir communication can occur through natural geological pathways such as faults, fractures, or permeable zones that connect adjacent hydrocarbon-bearing formations. This connectivity can influence the flow of fluids within and between reservoirs, impacting production strategies and recovery efficiency. Understanding interreservoir leakage is important for assessing the integrity of reservoirs used for carbon capture and storage (CCS) or for managing underground gas storage.

In hydrogeology, interreservoir flow can happen between different aquifers, particularly where geological barriers are incomplete or absent. This can lead to the mixing of groundwater resources, potentially affecting water quality and availability. For instance, upward leakage from a deeper, saline aquifer into a shallower freshwater aquifer can render the freshwater unusable. Conversely, downward leakage from a surface reservoir into an underlying aquifer can be a source of recharge.

The study of interreservoir phenomena involves analyzing geological structures, fluid properties, and pressure differentials. Techniques like seismic surveys, well testing, and numerical modeling are employed to identify and quantify interreservoir connections and their impact on fluid movement and storage.