Modelling of carbonate rock wettability based on surface charge and calcite dissolution

The lack of consensus on the mechanisms underpinning low salinity waterflooding (LSWF) oil recovery has affected successful implementation LSWF in carbonate reservoirs. Many investigators link improved observed from to wettability alteration. Several models are proposed literature study alteration mechanism. However, reliability some is being contested, as they struggle accurately predict trend. This aims develop a new model that can performance processes. We propose indicator (WI) integrates three (surface charge alteration/?-potential, calcite dissolution, and ion exchange) which, suggested, dictate was implemented UTCHEM, which coupled with PHREEQCRM, used simulate several experimental recoveries. results produced simulations consistent data. outcomes this show adsorption crude still possible even when oil-brine rock-brine interfaces have same polarities ?-potentials. further demonstrate not always caused by alteration, but also other factors such rock quality physical displacement. outcome indicate early injection brine significantly improve recovery. Findings understanding process. Moreover, be applied design planning projects estimate LSWF.