Optimization of natural gas production by waterflooding

This paper discusses optimization of natural gas production using waterflooding of a gas reservoir. The functions governing the rate of gas withdrawal and the rate of water injection control the operation of the reservoir. These, together with volume and mass balance and the ideal gas law, give a simple system of ordinary differential equations modelling the reservoir. We use several physical and economic definitions of an optimal production rate. Under each definition, we establish the optimal controls. The relation between prices of water and natural gas and the optimal controls is discussed.Work performed under the auspices of the Energy Research and Development Administration.