Natural gas reinjection involves returning gas to the reservoir after it has been extracted. This method is essential for increasing reservoir pressure, enabling more efficient oil recovery.

In this article, we will explore how this process works, its main benefits and the future prospects of this fundamental practice in the oil and gas sector.

What is natural gas reinjection

Natural gas reinjection is a method used in oil extraction in fields where gas is associated with oil, such as pre-salt. The basic process involves injecting gas back into the reservoir, with the aim of maintaining pressure and improving oil recovery. There are two main types of reinjection: one uses gas separated from the oil, while the other involves produced water, which also helps maintain pressure and displace the oil.

Historically, natural gas reinjection in Brazil gained momentum with the exploration of pre-salt oil. Since then, this practice has proven to be an advantageous solution, capable of optimizing oil production, especially in areas with limited infrastructure for gas transportation.

How gas reinjection works

The natural gas reinjection process begins with the separation of the gas produced during oil extraction. This gas is then compressed using high-powered compressors, which are essential to increase the pressure of the gas before it is reintroduced into the reservoir. This step is essential to ensure that the gas can effectively maintain the required pressure.

After compression, the gas is transported through pipelines to the injection wells. Automated control systems play an important role in this process, allowing real-time adjustments based on reservoir conditions.

Benefits of natural gas reinjection

Natural gas reinjection brings a number of important advantages for energy efficiency. By maintaining reservoir pressure, the technique increases the oil recovery rate to up to 50% using tertiary methods, while natural recovery reaches only 14% to 18%.

In addition, reinjection also contributes to reducing emissions by reusing the gas, avoiding flaring. This process is even more relevant in fields with high CO2 levels, where flaring is not viable.

Finally, there is a positive economic impact. Reinjection is more economical than using chemicals for recovery, optimizing production without the costs associated with flaring gas. Since the beginning of pre-salt exploration, the practice has been favored, promoting an efficient approach in the oil industry.

Future projections

Projections for the natural gas reinjection market in Brazil indicate a scenario of growth in gas production.

Studies by the Energy Research Company (EPE) predict that gross natural gas production in Brazil should reach 314 million cubic meters per day by 2034, more than double the 150 million m³/day recorded in 2023.

Currently, a significant portion of the natural gas produced is reinjected into reservoirs to aid in oil extraction. In March 2024, the reinjection rate reached a record 58%.

Through its “Gas for Employment” program, Brazil has been seeking strategies to optimize the use of natural gas. This includes reviewing field development plans and promoting investments in infrastructure for transportation and processing. 

Conclusion

In this article, we highlight how natural gas reinjection can be an effective solution to improve resource recovery, among other advantages. This practice allows for smarter resource management, increasing productivity and competitiveness in the oil and gas sector.

With technological innovations and global trends, considering natural gas reinjection is undoubtedly a strategic step to maximize extraction efficiency, extend the useful life of reservoirs and generate economic gains. 

About ALTAVE

ALTAVE is a Brazilian company, accredited as a Strategic Defense Company (EED), with patented technology in Brazil and abroad. The company has obtained CE marking, indicating the approval of its product quality to be marketed throughout the European Union.

ALTAVE has been offering intelligent monitoring solutions for over 10 years to the Oil and Gas, Energy, Mining, Agribusiness, and other sectors.

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