A NOVEL EOR POLYMER (Ⅰ)—STUDY ON GELATION OF RESORCINOL-FORMALDEHYDE SYSTEMS

Factors affecting the gelation of resorcinol-formaldehyde systems have been examined overvariable ranges applicable to oilfield use. Gelation of resorcinol-formaldehyde (RF) system wassensitive to pH,salinity and hardness. Generally,this gel system could be used in fresh water orlow salinity brine at pH higher than about 9. The application would require careful monitoring ofinjection fluids to avoid premature gelation or prolonged shut-in times,especially under conditionsof low salinity and high pH. Salinity and hardness compatibilities of the system were improved bysulfomethylation of resorcinol. Aqueous sulfomethylated resorcinol formaldehyde (SMRF)system could be used in brine with higher salinity and hardness and at a wider pH range of 5--10.