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Study on an enhanced simulation method for sulfur deposition characteristics in sour gas reservoirs based on the overlapping grid method.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Study on an enhanced simulation method for sulfur deposition characteristics in sour gas reservoirs based on the overlapping grid method.
Authors: Guo, Xiao1 (AUTHOR) guoxiao@swpu.edu.cn, Su, Wen-Jing1 (AUTHOR), Wang, Peng-Kun2 (AUTHOR), Wang, Hao-Dong1 (AUTHOR), Wu, Hao-Yu1 (AUTHOR), Wang, Lan1 (AUTHOR)
Source: Petroleum Science & Technology. 2026, Vol. 44 Issue 10, p1547-1571. 25p.
Subject Terms: *Simulation methods & models, *Sulfuration, *Gas reservoirs, *Computer simulation, *Oil reservoir engineering, *Fluid flow, *Rock permeability
Abstract: Sour gas reservoirs face significant challenges during development due to sulfur deposition, which reduces porosity and permeability, impairs near-wellbore flow, and shortens productive lifespans. However, existing models often fail to capture the complex flow dynamics and spatial distribution of sulfur in the near-wellbore area, leading to reduced forecast accuracy. To address this gap, we propose a novel enhanced simulation method based on an overlapping grid method, which allows for accurate modeling of three-phase (gas, liquid, sulfur) flow dynamics while maintaining computational efficiency. Field data validation confirms the method's reliability in accurately predicting sulfur deposition onset and spatial distribution. Sensitivity analysis reveals that lower initial reservoir pressures lead to earlier sulfur deposition, while high sulfur content, low permeability, and high production rates intensify near-wellbore deposition. In contrast, higher permeability promotes a more uniform sulfur distribution. These findings provide actionable insights for designing effective sulfur mitigation strategies, including back-flushing, acidification, and sulfur inhibitors, to preserve permeability and ensure sustained productivity. This study offers a powerful tool for optimizing reservoir management practices, enhancing operational stability, and prolonging the productive lifespan of sour gas reservoirs, with potential long-term benefits for economic sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Database: Energy & Power Source
Description
Abstract:Sour gas reservoirs face significant challenges during development due to sulfur deposition, which reduces porosity and permeability, impairs near-wellbore flow, and shortens productive lifespans. However, existing models often fail to capture the complex flow dynamics and spatial distribution of sulfur in the near-wellbore area, leading to reduced forecast accuracy. To address this gap, we propose a novel enhanced simulation method based on an overlapping grid method, which allows for accurate modeling of three-phase (gas, liquid, sulfur) flow dynamics while maintaining computational efficiency. Field data validation confirms the method's reliability in accurately predicting sulfur deposition onset and spatial distribution. Sensitivity analysis reveals that lower initial reservoir pressures lead to earlier sulfur deposition, while high sulfur content, low permeability, and high production rates intensify near-wellbore deposition. In contrast, higher permeability promotes a more uniform sulfur distribution. These findings provide actionable insights for designing effective sulfur mitigation strategies, including back-flushing, acidification, and sulfur inhibitors, to preserve permeability and ensure sustained productivity. This study offers a powerful tool for optimizing reservoir management practices, enhancing operational stability, and prolonging the productive lifespan of sour gas reservoirs, with potential long-term benefits for economic sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:10916466
DOI:10.1080/10916466.2025.2451671