| abstract |
A process for recovering oil from fractured formations is provided which involves altering the wettability of the formation, particularly at the interface of the fracture and rock matrix. The process of the present invention improves the ability of injected fluids flowing in the fracture to enter the rock matrix to displace oil. When employed in conjunction with a water-wet fractured oil-bearing formation, the process comprises the steps of: injecting a wettability agent capable of transforming the water-wet fractured formation from water-wet to oil-wet; contacting the oil-wet fractured formation with the wettability agent so injected at a fracture/matrix interface; injecting an oil miscible solvent; and recovering oil. A process for use with an oil-wet fractured oil-bearing formation is also provided. |