Libra: Applied Technologies Adding Value to a Giant Ultra Deep Water Pre-salt Field - Santos Basin, Brazil

Abstract

Libra reservoirs are among the most productive in Brazil pre-salt province, with oil columns up to 400 m thick. These heterogeneous carbonate reservoirs contain oil with a relatively high Gas Oil Ratio (GOR) and CO2 levels ranging from 40 to 45% in the associated gas. It is also characterized by sparse occurrences of intrusive and extrusive igneous rock within the pre-salt and post salt horizons, which causes additional challenges for seismic imaging and reservoir architecture modelling. Driven by the challenges and fueled by an innovation spirit, the Libra Consortium have been developing a portfolio of technologies to address those challenges and close the technical and operational gaps, in order to add value by reducing and managing uncertainties, optimizing production and overall improving hydrocarbon recovery. Since Libra development strategy is based on full reinjection of produced gas for CO2 disposal purposes and enhanced oil recovery, gas management and its operational robustness over the full life cycle of the field are key. In this context, a focused and robust technological approach based on applied technology portfolio has been adopted to address the many unique challenges and add value to the project through the implementation of new and innovative solutions as well as technologies over the life cycle of the projects.