| abstract |
Systems and methods are provided for low emission (in-situ) heavy oil production, using a compound heat medium, comprising products of combustion of a fuel mixture with an oxidant and a moderator, mixed with steam generated from direct contact of hot combustion products with water, under pressure. The compound heat medium, comprising mainly CO 2 and steam, is injected at pressure into a hydrocarbon reservoir, where steam condenses out of the compound heat medium releasing heat to the reservoir. The condensate is produced with the hydrocarbon as a hydrocarbon/water mixture or emulsion. Non-condensable gases, primarily CO 2 , from the compound heat medium may remains in the reservoir through void replacement, leakage to adjacent geological strata. Beneficially, any CO 2 produced is recovered at pressure, for use in other processes, or for disposal by sequestration. Produced water is recovered and recycled as a moderator and steam generating medium. |