Abstract

Polly Keen, BP Institute, University of Cambridge Title: Encapsulation of microorganisms in colloidosomes Abstract: Polymeric microcapsules called colloidosomes have been prepared encapsulating undamaged viable Baker’s yeast cells, E.coli and Lactobacillus. The method of preparation, the encapsulated cell properties and the diffusion limitation of species such as glucose through the colloidosome shell have been investigated. Wei Jin Gun, BP Institute, University of Cambridge Title: Encapsulation of Inhibitors for Down-well Applications Abstract: During oil recovery, a water flood forces oil from porous rocks. However, oil-rich low permeability regions are a major problem. This research investigates the possibility of using microcapsules to lower the permeability of, or even better block-off, high permeability regions. Microcapsules, containing thickening agents, are flowed through porous media with distinctive permeability regions. Measurements determine how the capsules affect the total permeability and flow fronts of both high and low permeability regions. Results show a decrease in total permeability when microcapsules are introduced and release of thickening agents, produced a similar effect. This allows control over the flow path taken.