Viscous oil recovery method

Abstract

Disclosed is method for treating a high permeabiity communication channel between wells for use in a viscous oil recovery method to stabilize fine particulate matter present in the communication channel to prevent movement of fine particles during the oil recovery process. The communication channel is formed by fracturing or sweeping with air followed by introducing a viscous oil displacing medium such as a solvent or steam to desaturate the previously fractured or air swept zone in the formation, converting it into a high permeability channel between wells. In order to stabilize the fine grain sand and other minerals present in the communication channel to prevent migration thereof which results in loss of permeability of the communication channel, the channel is treated with a hydroxy aluminum solution and allowed to age for a period of time sufficient to form crystalline aluminum hydroxide which cements the grains together while maintaining permeability of the communication channel. Thereafter the primary oil recovery fluid, such as steam, may be injected through the stabilized, high permeability communication channel for long periods of time sufficient to heat the portions of the oil saturated formation above or below the channel, and strip viscous petroleum therefrom, so a substantial amount of the oil present within the pattern being subjected to the oil recovery process may be recovered.