Oil recovery by in situ combustion

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Enhanced recovery of oil from subterranean sedimentary formations by an in situ combustion method employing a pattern of an injection well and several production wells spaced apart by a treatment zone. Combustion is controlled by placing at least one fluid conduit in a treatment zone and introducing a control fluid through it to modify the flame front. Oxygen may be introduced to take over from combustion air initially introduced through the injection well, to sustain combustion and advance the flame front. Water may be injected through the injection well alternating, with the oxygen through the control conduit to continue a wet combustion method started with air. The strategic placing of …