Exedra

Exedra has developed a method whereby a tracer gas is utilized to verify a permanent downhole barrier

Technology concept/solution:
Exedra has developed a method whereby a tracer gas is utilized to verify a permanent downhole barrier. The tool is placed below the barrier that is to be tested. Once the plug has cured, a tracer gas is released below the plug. If the plug leaks, the tracer molecules are detected above the barrier, and an alarm will go off. If no tracer molecules are detected, one can conclude that the barrier is leak tight.

The development was organized as a Joint Industry Project with partners Equinor, ConocoPhillips and AkerBP. The method is fast, versatile, extremely sensitive and low cost. This innovation will enable the O&G industry to introduce new and more flexible solutions for the permanent plugging of wells at a faster pace and at a lower cost.

Exedra is currently qualifying this tool to verify the integrity of downhole barriers for permanently plugging oil and gas wells of the following materials/methods:

(1) Bismuth-based plugs – Special metal alloys that melts at a low temperature, and then cures to create a tight seal, blocking gas from escaping.

(2) Tubing left in hole (TLIH) – Keeps steel pipes in the well so that plugging can be done using a smaller, cheaper vessel (Light Well Intervention Vessel) instead of an expensive drilling rig.

(3) Dual PWC (Perforate, Wash, and Cement) – Uses controlled explosions to create a solid barrier inside the well, sealing it without having to remove large steel casings, which saves time and money.

Exedra’s next slim downhole tool, will monitor plug integrity over time, ensuring long-term sealing.

Partners:
‍Equinor, ConocoPhillips, AkerBP

Owners:
Founder, private investors

Funding:

5,1 million NOK Norwegian Research Council

Equinor, TotalEnergies

Timeline:

‍Conceptualisation

Development and testing

Demonstration and validation (Planning for field trial in Texas ongoing)

Commercialization

Contact: Bernt Pedersen