e-mail : info@ogrindoitb.com

e-mail : info@ogrindoitb.com

Category: News Article

Categories
News Article

Dr. Ir. Boni Swadesi, S.T., M.T., IPU: Building Synergy in EOR Research and Innovation with OGRINDO ITB

Profile of Dr. Ir. Boni Swadesi, S.T., M.T., IPU – Project Manager of OGRINDO ITB, petroleum engineering expert specializing in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), reservoir mechanics, and chemical EOR research in Indonesia. The article highlights her education, projects, and leadership in sustainable energy innovation.
Dr. Ir. Boni Swadesi, S.T., M.T., IPU – Project Manager of OGRINDO ITB, who plays an active role in strengthening research and collaboration in the field of Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR).

With more than two decades of experience in petroleum engineering, Dr. Ir. Boni Swadesi, S.T., M.T., IPU is one of the key figures behind the advancement of research and development of Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) technology in Indonesia. Currently, she serves as the Project Manager of OGRINDO ITB, coordinating various research projects and strategic collaborations between academia, industry, and research institutions to promote the sustainable application of EOR technology.

🧠 Educational and Scientific Background

Dr. Boni earned her Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering from UPN “Veteran” Yogyakarta, the university where she now serves as a lecturer and also as the Head of the Petroleum Engineering Department. Her passion for research led her to continue her Master’s and Doctoral studies at the Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), both in Petroleum Engineering.
Her research focuses on the integrated surfactant injection mechanism for light oil in sandstone reservoirs, as well as the development of 1D and 2D polymer injection models to evaluate the squeezing and sweeping mechanisms in the EOR process.

⚙️ Professional Contributions and Achievements

As both an academic and practitioner, Dr. Boni is actively involved in various leading research projects at EOR Lab ITB, LAPI ITB, and OGRINDO ITB. Some of the key projects she has led or coordinated include:

  • Field Trial Polymer Injection at the Tanjung Field – Pertamina EP, covering implementation, evaluation, and field monitoring.
  • Chemical EOR Optimization Study for Kaji Semoga Field (PT Medco E&P) and Kenali Asam and Tempino Fields (PT Pertamina EP).
  • Formulation and Development of Micromodel cEOR, a miniature technology for laboratory-scale chemical injection studies that has become one of ITB’s flagship research facilities.

As a productive researcher, Dr. Boni has contributed to numerous scientific publications in both national and international journals, discussing topics such as reservoir fluid behavior, reservoir mechanics, and the development of experimental and numerical models for chemical injection optimization.

Dr. Boni Swadesi presenting her study on surfactant characteristics for light oil in EOR applications in the era of renewable energy.

🤝 Strategic Role at OGRINDO ITB

In her capacity as Project Manager of OGRINDO ITB, Dr. Boni plays a vital role in strengthening OGRINDO’s position as a platform for national energy research and innovation collaboration. She ensures that every research effort does not stop at the laboratory stage but can be implemented in the field to enhance national energy productivity and efficiency.
In addition, Dr. Boni actively fosters strategic partnerships with oil and gas industries such as Pertamina Subholding Upstream and Medco E&P, while also promoting the integration of EOR research with the development technology of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS).

🌱 Dedication to Education and Innovation

Amid her busy schedule, Dr. Boni remains committed to mentoring students and young researchers in reservoir engineering and chemical EOR. For her, the success of research is not only measured by technical outcomes but also by the ability to nurture a new generation of competent, ethical, and sustainability-minded energy engineers.

Dr. Boni Swadesi sharing her insights on EOR research and encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration at academic and energy industry forums.

With a collaborative spirit and strong vision, Dr. Ir. Boni Swadesi, S.T., M.T., IPU stands as a true example that research and innovation can move hand in hand to support national energy independence and strengthen Indonesia’s position in the development of sustainable oil and gas technologies.

Categories
News Article

OGRINDO ITB and Pertamina Subholding Upstream Explore Research Collaboration for Indonesia’s Energy Future

Pertemuan resmi antara OGRINDO ITB dan Pertamina Subholding Upstream di PHE Tower Jakarta, 23 September 2025, membahas penjajakan kerja sama riset migas, Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), optimasi reservoir, serta solusi rendah karbon seperti penyimpanan dan pemanfaatan CO₂ untuk mendukung transisi energi berkelanjutan di Indonesia.

Jakarta, September 23, 2025 – The research consortium Oil and Gas Recovery for Indonesia (OGRINDO) ITB continues to strengthen its role as a bridge between academia and the national energy industry. Located at the Boardroom, 25th Floor, PHE Tower, South Jakarta, OGRINDO ITB held a meeting to explore research collaboration with Pertamina Subholding Upstream as a strategic step to foster research innovation in Indonesia’s upstream oil and gas sector.

The meeting, which took place from 08.00 to 09.30 WIB, was attended by leaders from both parties. From OGRINDO ITB were Prof. H. Septoratno Siregar, Dr. Boni Swadesi, and Ir. Mahruri, S.T., M.Sc., while Pertamina Subholding Upstream was represented by Edy Karyanto, Mery Luciawaty, Benny Hidajat Sidik, and Asep Samsul Arifin.

Figure 1. Representatives of OGRINDO ITB and Pertamina Subholding Upstream in a meeting to explore research collaboration at PHE Tower.

Strengthening National Oil and Gas Research Collaboration

In this meeting, Prof. Septoratno and Dr. Boni presented OGRINDO’s journey as an oil and gas research consortium with more than 20 years of experience addressing energy challenges through research and innovation. OGRINDO has partnered with various universities and industries to deliver science-based solutions, ranging from Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) to CO₂ storage and utilization technologies in support of the low-carbon energy transition.

Pertamina Subholding Upstream welcomed this initiative positively and recognized OGRINDO’s great potential for synergy, particularly through the Upstream Innovation (UI) and Research and Technology Innovation (RTI). This collaboration is expected to accelerate the application of research results into real solutions in the field, from optimizing oil and gas production to implementing environmentally friendly technologies.

Delivering Sustainable Energy Solutions Together

OGRINDO ITB invites energy companies, research institutions, and universities to join in research and innovation partnerships. Together, we can develop technologies that strengthen national energy resilience while driving the transition toward low-carbon energy.

Figure 2. The spirit of collaboration between OGRINDO ITB and Pertamina Subholding Upstream to strengthen oil and gas research.

For more information on collaboration programs, research proposals, or partnership opportunities, please contact:
📩 Email: info@ogrindoitb.com
🌐 Website: www.ogrindoitb.com
Let’s realize Indonesia’s energy future that is innovative, efficient, and sustainable together with OGRINDO ITB.

Categories
News Article

Collaboration between OGRINDO ITB and Purnomo Yusgiantoro EOR Laboratory: Utilizing Gas Flood Core Flooding Technology for Enhanced Oil Recovery

OGRINDO ITB and Lab EOR Purnomo Yusgiantoro collaboration using a Gas Flood Core Flooding system at Gedung Dato to research Enhanced Oil Recovery with CO₂, N₂, and WAG gas injection under high-pressure, high-temperature reservoir conditions.

Welcome to our premier research facility at Gedung Dato (Labtek XVII), Institut Teknologi Bandung!
Through a partnership between OGRINDO ITB and Purnomo Yusgiantoro Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) Laboratory, we jointly utilize the advanced Gas Flood Core Flooding facility to support research and development of Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) strategies based on gas injection (miscible and immiscible).

This collaboration enables resource sharing between academic research and industrial needs, ensuring that the facility can provide broader benefits for energy technology development.

Figure 1. Apparatus of Gas Flood ready to support gas injection and core flooding studies for both research and industrial collaboration.

🛠️ Key Features of the Gas Flooding

This system offers the following advanced technical capabilities:

  • High pressure: Confining pressure and pore pressure up to 700 bar (~10,000 psi).
  • High temperature: Working temperature up to 150 °C.
  • Capability to use gases such as CO₂, N₂, or hydrocarbon gases.
  • Ability to perform water flooding, gas flooding, and WAG (Water-Alternating-Gas).
  • The unsteady state method to obtain key parameters such as gas and liquid relative permeability, saturation of remaining oil, displacement efficiency after waterflooding, and water production related to gas injection.
  • Core holder can be positioned horizontally.
  • Wetted parts made of Hastelloy for superior durability.

With this system, the Purnomo Yusgiantoro EOR Laboratory in collaboration with OGRINDO ITB is able to simulate reservoir conditions in the laboratory and generate crucial experimental data for optimizing gas injection in the field.

Figure 2. Monitoring of pressure, temperature, and flow rates in real time to ensures precise control during gas injection experiments.

🔍 Applications and Benefits of the Collaboration

The collaboration between OGRINDO ITB and the Purnomo Yusgiantoro EOR Lab opens opportunities for research and services to:

  • Determine the optimal gas injection strategy (gas type, pressure, and injection rate).
  • Evaluate efficient WAG schemes.
  • Assess oil displacement efficiency after waterflooding.
  • Estimate additional oil production potential.
  • Understand gravity segregation effects in gas injection.
  • Provide critical laboratory test data as key input for reservoir modeling.
Figure 3. Preparation of core sample inside the Gas Flood chamber to simulate reservoir conditions up to 700 bar and 150 °C.

🤝 Joint Research and Services

The Purnomo Yusgiantoro EOR Laboratory, in collaboration with OGRINDO ITB, conducts various gas injection experiments, including CO₂, N₂, and other core flood studies, according to research and project requirements.

This collaboration represents a tangible example of resource sharing between industry and academia. Through this partnership, OGRINDO ITB and the Purnomo Yusgiantoro EOR Lab are ready to support:

  • Joint research with oil and gas companies.
  • Academic studies and university projects.
  • Pilot study for energy and EOR technologies.
  • CO₂-EOR initiatives or CCUS projects.

With a team of reservoir experts, state-of-the-art facilities, and extensive research experience, we are ready to be your strategic partner in advancing EOR technology in Indonesia.

Figure 4. Inside view of the Gas Flood: advanced device for gas injection EOR studies.

📞 Contact Us

For more technical information, service inquiries, or research collaboration:
📧 Email: info@ogrindoitb.com
🌐 Website: www.ogrindoitb.com
Visit our website to see complete specifications, research portfolios, and available services. Together, let’s build the future of production optimization with advanced gas injection technology!

Categories
News Article

Hands-on Laboratory Training on Chemical EOR at Lab EOR ITB: Bridging Knowledge, Industry, and Innovation

Hands-on Laboratory Training Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (CEOR) di Lab EOR ITB, kolaborasi dengan OGRINDO ITB menghadirkan pelatihan praktis bagi profesional industri migas.

On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, Enhanced Oil Recovery Laboratory of Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), in collaboration with Oil and Gas Recovery for Indonesia (OGRINDO) ITB, successfully conducted the Hands-on Laboratory Training Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (CEOR). This event served as an important platform for industry professionals and academics to gain a deeper understanding of Chemical EOR metode through direct laboratory practice.

The main activities in this Hands-on Laboratory Training Chemical EOR were Screening Polymer and Surfactant Formulation, carried out intensively at the EOR Laboratory ITB. Participants not only learned the theoretical foundations but also conducted a series of comprehensive laboratory tests to evaluate the performance of chemical EOR under various reservoir conditions.

Figure 1. Training participants listening to the instructor’s explanation of Chemical EOR at Lab EOR ITB

Training Details

  1. Screening Polymer

In this session, participants conducted several key tests to assess polymer performance, including:

  • Fluid–Fluid Compatibility Test: viscosity measurement, polymer–water compatibility, filtration ratio, screen factor, and thermal stability test
  • Rock–Fluid Compatibility Test: static adsorption test, dynamic adsorption test and IPV, as well as injectivity test (RF and RRF)
  • Coreflood Test: the test of tertiary oil recovery to evaluate the potential improvement of oil recovery
Figure 2. Surfactant testing session: participants engaged in an interactive discussion with the instructor on laboratory testing methods

2. Surfactant Formulation Lab Test

This session focused on surfactant formulation under various laboratory conditions, including:

  • Fluid–Fluid Compatibility Test: uji kompatibilitas surfaktan dengan air, IFT test, phase behavior test, IFT thermal stability test, and filtration test
  • Rock–Fluid Compatibility Test: wettability test, static adsorption test, dynamic adsorption test, and capillary desaturation curves (CDC) test
  • Coreflood Test: the test of tertiary oil recovery test to evaluate the effectiveness of surfactants in mobilizing residual oil.
Figure 3. Laboratory practice session: participants conducting direct fluid–rock compatibility testing

Through this series of tests, participants gained hands-on experience in CEOR laboratory evaluations using methods applied globally in the oil and gas industry. This further strengthens the position of Lab EOR ITB as a research and training center equipped with facilities and expertise capable of addressing the real needs of Indonesia’s petroleum industry.

Training Participants

This training was attended by professionals from various national oil and gas companies, namely:

  • Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) – including PHE OSES, PHE ONWJ, and PHE SHU SDRE
  • Pertamina EP (PEP) – including PEP Zone 7
  • Pertamina Hulu Mahakam (PHM)
  • Pertamina Hulu Rokan (PHR)
  • Pertamina Hulu Indonesia (PHI)
Figure 4. Group photo of Hands-on Laboratory Training Chemical EOR participants at Lab EOR ITB.
Figure 5. Chemical EOR training participants at the Faculty of Mining and Petroleum Engineering, ITB.

Impact and Benefits

Through this hands-on experience, participants not only enhanced their technical skills, but also gained strategic insights to support increased recovery factor and the sustainability of Indonesia’s energy sector.

With complete laboratory facilities and the support of experienced experts, Lab EOR ITB together with OGRINDO are ready to become strategic partners for the oil and gas industry in developing and implementing Enhanced Oil Recovery technologies in Indonesia.

This training is a tangible form of collaboration between OGRINDO ITB and Lab EOR ITB in strengthening human resource capacity in the oil and gas sector. It provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of Chemical EORimplementation, from laboratory scale to field applications.

Categories
News Article

Four Trapping Mechanisms: How CO₂ Stays Safely Locked Underground

Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) in Indonesia explained with trapping mechanisms, global case studies, storage potential, and OGRINDO ITB services to support Net Zero Emission

Climate change caused by the increasing CO₂ emissions is a major challenge we face today. To prevent its impact, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) emerges as a proven safe solution to store CO₂ deep underground. CCS not only prevents emissions from reaching the atmosphere, but also becomes an essential foundation of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)—a pathway that allows CO₂ emissions to be transformed into valuable opportunities.

Figure 1. General scheme of a CCS project: starting from capturing CO₂ emissions, transportation, to permanent storage beneath the earth’s surface (Ali et al, 2022)

Four CO₂ Trapping Mechanisms
The long-term security of CO₂ storage is ensured by four natural mechanisms that complement each other over time:

  1. Structural Trapping
    CO₂ that moves upward due to density differences will be stopped by the caprock. Since gas density tends to be smaller than oil and water, CO₂ gas will gradually move in a vertical direction. To ensure CO₂ remains trapped within the formation, caprock yang cukup reliable, with extremely low permeability and wettability that favors strong water wet conditions.
  2. Residual Trapping
    A portion of CO₂ is trapped within the rock pores as small immobile bubbles. This mechanism provides long-term storage stability.
  3. Dissolution Trapping
    CO₂ dissolves into formation water and forms a carbonate solution with a density heavier than the other fluids present in the formation, thus tending to sink downward and reducing the risk of CO₂ leakage.
  4. Mineral Trapping
    Dissolved CO₂ reacts with rock minerals (Ca, Mg, Fe) and forms solid carbonate minerals such as calcite or magnesite. This is the most permanent form of storage because CO₂ transforms into new stable rock over thousands of years.

These mechanisms work in layers: structural and residual provide immediate protection, while dissolution and mineral ensure long-term security. Together, they create a multi-layered line of defense that guarantees CO₂ remains safely stored for centuries.

Figure 2. Layered contribution of CO₂ trapping mechanisms that complement each other over time, ensuring storage security across generations.

CCS as the Foundation of CCUS
Understanding these four mechanisms helps us see that CCS is a crucial first step in the journey toward CCUS. Without secure storage, it is difficult to develop large-scale CO₂ utilization. Through CCS, CO₂ is not only safely stored underground, but also opens opportunities for reuse—for example in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) as part of the CCUS solution.

🌱 This Is Just the First Step
In the next episode, we will discuss how CCUS transforms CO₂ from a burden into a valuable resource, driving industrial innovation and accelerating the transition to cleaner energy.
✨ Keep following our article series, and be part of the journey toward a low-carbon future.
📩 Contact us: info@ogrindoitb.com
🌐 Learn more: www.ogrindoitb.com

Reference:
IPCC, 2005: IPCC Special Report on Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage. Prepared by Working Group III of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Metz, B., Davidson, O., de Coninck, H.C., Loos, M., and Meyer, L.A. (eds.)]. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, United Kingdom and New York, NY, USA, 442 pp.

Categories
News Article

Prof. Dr. Ir. Hasian P. Septoratno Siregar, DEA – Founder of OGRINDO ITB & Expert in Enhanced Oil Recovery in Indonesia

Profile of Prof. Hasian P. Septoratno Siregar, Founder of OGRINDO ITB and Indonesia’s leading Enhanced Oil Recovery expert, highlighting his academic journey, research, innovations, and contributions to the national oil and gas industry.

For more than four decades, Prof. Dr. Ir. Hasian Parlindungan Septoratno Siregar, DEA, has been one of the key pillars in the advancement of Indonesia’s petroleum industry. As the founder of Oil and Gas Recovery for Indonesia (OGRINDO) at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), he has led numerous breakthroughs in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) that directly contributed to increasing national oil and gas production. His track record encompasses education, research, teaching, academic leadership, and strategic partnerships with industry—cementing his reputation as one of the most influential EOR maestros in Indonesia.

Prof. Dr. Ir. Hasian Parlindungan Septoratno Siregar, DEA – Founder OGRINDO ITB & Expert in Enhanced Oil Recovery Indonesia

Interesting Facts about Prof. Siregar
📌 Founder of OGRINDO ITB – Initiated the national oil and gas research consortium.
📌Indonesia’s EOR Expert – Leading research in chemical flooding and immiscible displacement
📌Educator for 46+ Years – Teaching at ITB since 1975, supervising ±200 undergraduate theses, ±40 master’s theses, and ±15 doctoral dissertations.
📌Extensive Field Experience – Involved in project development several oil fields in Indonesia such as Minas, Handil, Bunyu, Arjuna Offshore, and Tiaka.
📌National Awards – National Exemplary Lecturer (1986) and Satyalancana Karya Satya 30 Years (2009).

The Beginning of His Academic Journey
His passion for petroleum engineering began at the Petroleum Engineering Department of ITB, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1975. He then continued his studies in France and obtained a Diplôme d’Études Approfondies (DEA) from Université Paul Sabatier, Toulouse (1978), in the field of Porous Media Mechanics. Not stopping there, he pursued a doctoral degree at Université de Bordeaux I, Talence (1980), with a dissertation on polymer flow studies for EOR applications—research that became a significant foundation in the development of Enhanced Oil Recovery.

Dedication to Education
Upon returning to Indonesia, Mas Septo—as he is fondly called—resumed his service as a faculty member at Petroleum Engineering ITB until 2021. He taught courses such as Enhanced Oil Recovery, Immiscible Displacement, Chemical Flooding, and Advanced Optimization Techniques.

In addition to teaching, he served as Department Secretary (1986–1989), Deputy Head of the Research Center (1999–2002), Head of the Petroleum Reservoir Engineering Research Group (2006–2015), and led the OPPINET research consortium (2001–2021) as well as OGRINDO (2004–2021).

Prof. Hasian P. Siregar at Annual Meeting OGRINDO

Pioneer in Research and Innovation
Mas Septo initiated two major research consortia at ITB: Optimization of Pipeline Network (OPPINET) and Oil and Gas Recovery for Indonesia (OGRINDO). Both programs became bridges of collaboration between academia and industry, delivering EOR technologies ready to be applied in the field. His research and consultancy covered various oil and gas projects in Indonesia, from Minas Field (Riau), Handil and Bunyu (Kalimantan), Arjuna Offshore (West Java), to Tiaka (Sulawesi).

Role in Industry and Organizations
Since 1975, he has been involved in various industrial projects and consultancy works, for Pertamina, foreign oil and gas contractors, as well as research institutions such as PPPTMGB LEMIGAS. He was also a member of the BPMIGAS Technical Advisory Committee for the surfactant EOR project in Minas Field alongside professors from Texas, USA. His reputation has made him frequently invited as a speaker in numerous strategic discussions in the oil and gas sector. He has been a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) since 1975 and has been active in various other professional organizations, including IATMI and IPA.

Now, although retired from ITB, Prof. Dr. Ir. Hasian P. Septoratno Siregar, DEA, remains actively driving innovation through OGRINDO ITB and various industry collaborations. With his dedication and experience, he continues to inspire the younger generation of petroleum engineers to advance Enhanced Oil Recoverytechnology for the nation’s energy independence.

Categories
News Article

PVT 300/700 FV EDU: An Educational and Reliable Solution for Industrial-Standard Reservoir Fluid Property Analysis

PVT 300/700 FV EDU – educational reservoir fluid analysis tool with full visibility cell, 300 ml capacity, and 700 bar pressure, used for PVT experiments in academic and research laboratories

In the petroleum industry, understanding reservoir fluid characteristics is a crucial step in designing efficient production strategies. To meet this need, PVT 300/700 FV EDU is presented as an educational tool with industrial standards, capable of performing various essential experiments on crude oil, volatile oil, and gas condensate.

Figure 1. PVT 300/700 FV EDU apparatus with a capacity of 300 ml and pressure up to 700 bar

🔎Why Choose PVT 300/700 FV EDU?

PVT 300/700 FV EDU is specifically designed for educational purposes, but it retains analytical capabilities equivalent to our flagship product, PVT FV. The difference lies in the reduced pressure/volume ratio and lower automation level (automatic rotating mechanism, automated pneumatic valves).

🔹 Full Visibility Cell: All analysis processes can be directly observed through a full-capacity visual cell, providing an interactive and in-depth learning experience.

🔹 Multifunctional and Highly Precise: This tool can be used for various essential types of experiments, such as:

  • Constant Compositional Expansion (CCE)
  • Constant Compositional Depletion (CCD)
  • Separator Test
  • Differential Vaporization
  • Fluid Envelop Phase
  • Constant Volume Depletion (CVD)

🎯Measurement Accuracy

PVT 300/700 FV EDU is designed to deliver precise and reliable data, with the following measurement specifications:

  • Pressure: 0,1 bar
  • Temperature: ±0,1°C
  • Liquid deposit: 0,005 ml
  • Bubble/dew point repeatability: ±0,35 bar
  • Resisting corrosive abilities CO₂ and H₂S

⚙️Key Technical Specifications

  • Maximum Pressure: 700 bar
  • Maximum operating temperature: up to 180°C
  • PVT cell volume: 300 ml
  • Visual Volume: 300ml

PVT 300/700 FV EDU is equipped with a digital data acquisition and processing system, calibrated pressure and temperature sensors, as well as automatic valves and a control panel. These features make it ideal for use in academic laboratories, petroleum research centers, and technical training institutions.

🧪 OGRINDO Personnel Are Trained in Operating PVT 300/700 FV EDU

As part of OGRINDO’s commitment to ensuring internal technical competence, our personnel have participated in intensive training for operating the PVT 300/700 FV EDU facilitated by Petroleum Engineering Study Program, Bandung Institute of Technology. This training provided hands-on experience in operating the tool and understanding its application in practical reservoir fluid analysis.

👉 For complete training information click here.

Figure 2. Training session on the PVT 300/700 FV EDU with researchers and representatives from Sanchez Technologies

🌟 Innovation in PVT Learning

With PVT 300/700 FV EDU, OGRINDO presents a practical learning tool that bridges theory and real-world application in the oil and gas industry. Gain hands-on experience in observing fluid phases, analyzing PVT properties, and understanding reservoir dynamics comprehensively.

Contact us for a tool demonstration or educational collaboration offer!
📧 Email: info@ogrindoitb.com

Categories
News Article

Micromodel: An Innovative Technology for Optimizing Enhanced Oil Recovery

Micromodel fabrication process for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) research, showing step-by-step visualization from reservoir characterization to micromodel testing in oil-wet conditions.

Amid the challenges of enhanced oil recovery (Enhanced Oil Recovery), laboratory methods capable of visually representing fluid displacement mechanisms have become increasingly crucial. This is where the micromodel emerges as an innovative solution proudly developed by Indonesian researchers.

Micromodel is a two-dimensional laboratory device designed to replicate the pore structure of reservoir rocks, such as sandstone or carbonate rocks. Through a micromodel, the movement of fluids—such as water, oil, surfactants, and polymers—can be observed directly and in real-time.

Comparison of coreflood and micromodel flooding methods in observing fluid flow in reservoir rocks

Most conventional laboratory tests, like coreflooding, have limitations in providing direct visualization of chemical injection mechanisms. Micromodel address this challenge by enabling real-time observation of interfacial tension changes, wettability alteration, and viscosity displacement efficiency at the pore scale.

What Is the Purpose of Using a Micromodel?

Micromodel are used to:

  • Visually analyze the working mechanisms of chemical EOR
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of surfactants or polymers before upscaling to larger tests
  • Design efficient and targeted injection strategies
  • Identify phenomena such as channeling, viscous fingering, and oil entrapment often undetectable in conventional tests

Micromodel of OGRINDO ITB have some advantages:

  • Indigenous Innovation: Designed and developed by skilled local researchers.
  • Fast, Simple, and Cost-Effective: More efficient than coreflooding, in terms of time and cost.
  • Costumized Design: Tailored to match pore characteristics of sandstone or carbonat, even based on actual reservoir data.
  • Real-Time Visualization: Enables direct observation of fluid behavior at the microscopic scale.
  • Supports More Accurate EOR Design: Acts as a bridge between laboratory results and real-field applications.

Fabrication Process of the Micromodel

Fabrication process of micromodel includes the following stages:

Five main stages of micromodel
  1. Reservoir Characterization: Identifying the physical and petrophysical properties of the reservoir rock, such as porosity, permeability, fluid saturation, and geological structure.
  2. Thin Section & Petrography Analysis: Observing ultra-thin rock slices under a microscope to study mineral composition and rock textures.
  3. Rock Digitization: Converting physical rock data into 2D or 3D digital models.
  4. Micromodel Fabrication: Creating the micromodel through pore-pattern design, etching, and assembling materials using techniques such as thermal bonding.
  5. Micromodel Ready to Use: Final stage where micromodel has passed all fabrication and characterization tests, making it ready for EOR experiments such as surfactant or polymer injection or other EOR mechanism.

The key advantage of OGRINDO's micromodel lies in its design flexibility. By incorporating actual geological and petrophysical field data, micromodel can be customized to closely replicate real reservoir conditions. This makes the experimental results more relevant and reliable for supporting technical decisions in the field.

Visualization of oil-wet state in the micromodel

🔬 Micromodel is more than just a testing device—it is a window into a deeper understanding of subsurface fluid behavior. With OGRINDO ITB, let’s create smarter, more efficient, and data-driven EOR solutions.

📞 For more information or collaboration opportunities, contact our team at OGRINDO ITB.

Categories
News Article

OGRINDO ITB Research Breakthrough: Combination of Surfactant & Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles, Enhances Oil Recovery in Sandstone Reservoir

Research breakthrough by OGRINDO ITB on enhancing oil recovery in sandstone using surfactant and titanium dioxide nanoparticles

Innovation in technology Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) continues to evolve to address production challenges in mature oil fields. One of the current approaches gaining attention from researchers is the utilization of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles to improve surfactant performance in oil recovery processes, particularly in sandstone.

A research team from OGRINDO ITB recently published their latest research findings in a scientific article titled:
“Enhancement of Surfactant Performance via Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles: Implication for Oil Recovery in Sandstone.”

🌟 What Makes This Research Special?

Surfactant alkyl ethoxy carboxylate (AEC) surfactant is one of the chemical agents commonly used in EOR methods. However, the OGRINDO team went further by exploring how the addition of TiO₂ nanoparticles to AEC could drastically alter the system’s performance. Comprehensive testing was conducted, covering:

  • Interfacial tension
  • Contact angle
  • Zeta potential
  • Coreflooding test

State of the Art

The latest innovation in this research is the evaluation of AEC surfactant performance by adding TiO₂ nanoparticles within a concentration range of 0%–0.05% w/w.

The addition of 0.05% w/w TiO₂ nanoparticles to 1.25% w/w AEC surfactant was able to reduce interfacial tension to a value of 5.85 × 10⁻⁵ mN/m. This excellent performance was also confirmed in the coreflooding,, where oil recovery increased to a maximum value of 59.52%.

This finding highlights the importance of TiO₂ nanoparticle stability in surfactant solutions, which turns out to be the key factor in enhancing oil recovery efficiency.

Figure 1: Contact angles of all tested solutions on the Berea sandstone thin section. Error bars represent the standard deviation of the measurements
Figure 2: Effect of TiO₂ nanoparticle addition to AEC surfactant on interfacial tension (adapted from Megayanti et al. (2023))

Why Is This Important?

This research provides valuable new insights into the development of surfactant- and nanoparticle-based EOR methods. With this approach, it is expected to open new opportunities for improving oil recovery efficiency from sandstone reservoir — especially in fields that have experienced production decline.

This discovery also strengthens OGRINDO’s position as a leading EOR research center in Indonesia, focusing on the development of environmentally friendly, sustainable technologies tailored to national industry needs.

📚 Read the full journal click here

🌐 Explore More of Our Flagship Research

Visit the complete list of OGRINDO ITB scientific publications to explore our breakthroughs in Enhanced Oil Recovery, CO₂, hydrogen, and other energy transition technologies: 👉 OGRINDO ITB Scientific Publications

Through research, collaboration, and innovation, OGRINDO ITB is committed to being at the forefront of supporting national and global energy transformation.

Let’s create a smarter and more sustainable energy future — together with OGRINDO.

🙏 Acknowledgement

The researchers express their gratitude to Oil and Gas Recovery for Indonesia (OGRINDO) ITB and the Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) ITB for access to the experimental equipment used in this study.

Categories
News Article

Collaboration for Innovation: PT SNF Donates a Glove Box to the EOR Laboratory of FTTM ITB

Glove box inauguration ceremony by PT SNF Indonesia at the Enhanced Oil Recovery Laboratory, FTTM ITB to support oil recovery research.
The guests took a group photo in front of the Glove Box unit from SNF

As a tangible form of collaboration between industry and academia, PT SNF Water Science Indonesia officially handed over one unit of Glove Box, Viscometer, and supporting accessories to the Laboratory Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) Faculty of Mining and Petroleum Engineering (FTTM), Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB)

Dr. Ir. Dedy Irawan (Head of the Master’s and Doctoral Programs in Petroleum Engineering at ITB) shakes hands with Mr. David Chan, B.Eng (Managing Director of PT SNF Indonesia)

The donation ceremony took place on May 10, 2025, at the Auditorium Room, 8th floor of the PAU Building, ITB. The event was attended by Mr. David Chan, B.Eng., as Managing Director of PT SNF Indonesia, Prof. Dr. Elfahmi, S.Si., M.Si., as Director of Research and Innovation ITB, Head of the Master & Doctoral Program in Petroleum Engineering Dr. Ir. Dedy Irawan, S.T., M.T., Prof. Dr. Ir. Taufan Marhaendrajana, M.Sc., as Deputy of Exploitation at SKK Migas, and a team of lecturers and researchers involved in EOR technology research and development at ITB.

Prof. Dr. Elfahmi, S.Si., M.Si
Prof. Dr. Elfahmi, S.Si., M.Si
David Chan B. Eng
David Chan B. Eng
Prof. Dr. Ir. Taufan Marhaendrajana, M.Sc
Prof. Dr. Ir. Taufan Marhaendrajana, M.Sc

The glove box is a crucial tool in chemical and material research, including in the development of surfactants and polymers for technology Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (CEOR). The addition of this facility is expected to strengthen the capacity of the EOR Laboratory at FTTM ITB in producing more precise, safe, and impactful oil and gas technology innovations, contributing directly to the efficiency of national oil production.

PT SNF Indonesia, as a leading chemical company active in the supply of chemicals for the oil and gas industry, demonstrates its strong commitment to supporting research development and higher education in Indonesia. Through this donation, PT SNF not only provides equipment but also builds a collaborative bridge between industry and academic institutions as a strategic step to strengthen the oil and gas research ecosystem in Indonesia, particularly in the development of environmentally friendly and sustainable EOR methods.

📌 With close collaboration between academia and industry, we can jointly drive the advancement of national energy technology.

Glove Box Inauguration – PAU Building
Glove Box Inauguration - Dato Building

About Us

A research consortium under Petroleum Engineering ITB focused on advancing oil and gas recovery technologies and supporting the energy transition in Indonesia

Contact Us

Our Location

Energy Building, 7th Floor
Jl. Ganesa No. 10, Lebak Siliwangi, Coblong District, Bandung, West Java 40132, Indonesia

© 2025 OGRINDO ITB. Hak cipta dilindungi.