EOR Enzymes

EOR Enzymes stands for Enzyme-Oxidation-Reduction Enzymes (or sometimes also called Enzymes for Enhanced Oil Recovery depending on the context). However, the term "EOR Enzymes" is most commonly used in the field of Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) - a technology to increase oil production from reservoirs after conventional methods (such as natural pressure and water injection) begin to decline in effectiveness.

Here is a detailed explanation according to the context:

1. EOR Enzymes in the Oil Industry (Enhanced Oil Recovery Enzymes)

In the context of petroleum, EOR Enzymes are enzyme-based biotechnologies used to enhance oil recovery from reservoirs.
These enzymes usually work by:

• Changing the interfacial tension between oil and water, so that oil is more easily released from the rock pore.

• Breaking down complex organic compounds (such as asphaltenes, paraffins, and resins) that cause the oil to become more viscous.

• Increases the wettability of the reservoir rock - from oil-wet to water-wet - which makes it easier for water to push the oil out.

• Reduces the viscosity of the oil, making it easier for the oil to flow to the production well.

Common types of enzymes used:

• Lipase (breaks down fats and oils)

• Cellulase (breaks down cellulose and organic matter)

• Protease (breaks down proteins)

• Amylase (breaks down carbohydrates)

Advantages over conventional chemical methods (surfactants/solvents):

• Environmentally friendly (biodegradable)

• Non-toxic

• Can work at high temperature and salinity (with enzyme engineering)

• More cost-effective in the long run

2. EOR Enzymes in the Context of General Biotechnology

When not related to petroleum, "EOR enzymes" can sometimes also mean enzymes that play a role in oxidation-reduction reactions (Enzyme Oxidation-Reduction), which is a large group of enzymes such as:

• Dehydrogenase

• Oxidase

• Reductase

These enzymes move electrons in biochemical reactions, important in cell metabolism and industrial biotechnology processes.

Brief Summary