My group has worked on optimizing heavy oil recovery from a reservoir in Midway Sunset (SPERE 2006), characterization of heavy oils and bitumens (J. Chrom Sci. 1996), and on a variety of processing and upgrading technologies (Fuel 1994, 1996). We have used our finite-element simulators to study steam-chamber development in steam assisted gravity drainage with and without breaches in seals. We have also studied in-situ production of oil from oil shale reservoirs using pyrolysis, combustion and combinations. All aspects of this area of research will continue to grow with continued high oil prices and emphasis on the strategic importance of development of North American Petroleum resources.

A collection of pictures showing thermal simulations in oil sands and oil shale