Hard-to-extract oil reserves and the challenges of their extraction: increasing the oil recovery of hard-to-extract reserves and the problem of their extraction

Subject. This article investigates the problem of enhancing oil recovery from difficult-to-recover oil reserves and analyzes various methods and technologies employed to improve their extraction efficiency. Goals. The main objective of this research is to analyze different approaches to enhance oil recovery from difficult-to-recover reserves and identify the most effective methods and technologies. Methodology. A combined approach was used in this article, which included literature analysis, examination of previous research findings, and experimental modeling. Theoretical derivations and numerical calculations were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of various methods for enhancing oil recovery. Results. The study identified the most promising methods and technologies for increasing oil recovery from difficult-to-recover reserves. It was found that the application of combined methods, such as hydraulic fracturing in combination with chemical treatment and thermal stimulation, can significantly improve extraction efficiency. Key factors influencing the successful implementation of these methods include geological characteristics of the reservoir, oil properties, and economic considerations.