2024
Executive Summary
This study investigates how to improve the integrity of cement sheaths in oil and gas wells to prevent surface casing vent flow (SCVF) and gas migration (GM). These phenomena occur when gases, including methane, escape from wells, posing environmental and safety risks. The primary focus is on evaluating alternative cement blends for repairing wellbore leaks and ensuring long-term well integrity.
Alberta has a legacy of extensive oil and gas drilling, with over 400,000 wells drilled, many of which are now inactive. About 14% of wells completed since 1971 reported serious SCVF, making well integrity a pressing environmental concern. Methane emissions from SCVF are significant and better cement technology is needed to prevent gas leakage and meet evolving regulatory expectations.
The research was funded by PTAC, with in-kind technical and material support from Sanjel Energy Services Inc. (SESI). The research was conducted by Dr. Ergun Kuru and Dr. Ke Hu at the University of Alberta’s School of Petroleum Engineering.
23-WCRC-01