Reviving Permian Basin Wells — How Acid-Diverter Treatments Boost Production

As wells mature and available acreage dwindles, boosting output from existing assets has never been more vital. Acid-diverter systems are proving to be a promising approach in the Permian Basin, addressing two key issues at once.  Not only does incorporating acid-diverter systems during workovers mitigate scale buildup in the wellbore, but it has also been shown that these systems can improve inflow profiles.

Why are inflow profiles so important to well stimulation? An inflow profile is essentially a map of how much fluid is entering the wellbore at different points along its length. Understanding and controlling inflow profiles is crucial for optimizing well performance and maximizing oil and gas production.

Poorly balanced inflow profiles signal that oil is being left behind in under-drained sections of the reservoir. Conversely, a smoother, more evenly distributed inflow profile means more zones of the well are contributing, and your well is experiencing less channeling. With less channeling, you’ll see ongoing production gains across the length of the well.

In this blog, we’ll explore how custom acid-diverter treatments deliver sustained production gains in horizontal oil wells.

The Challenge of Declining Production

As wells age, operators routinely observe sharp drops in flow rates and bottom-hole pressure. Conventional acid flushes can restore performance. However, repeat treatments are often needed. Additional treatments can raise costs and operational complexity — a hurdle that proactive diversion strategies are designed to overcome.

Innovative Acid-Diverter Methodology

Optimizing uplift requires a data-driven approach and close collaboration with acidizing experts. Key steps in a diverter-enhanced acid job include:

• Formation and Production Analysis — Evaluate zone intervals, pressure histories and scaling tendencies to tailor acid volumes and diverter placement
• Laboratory Compatibility Testing — Mix candidate acid blends with formation, crude and simulated iron contents at down-hole temperatures to prevent emulsions or sludge formation.
• Diversion Agent Selection — Assess mechanical options (such as ball sealers or plug-and-packer tools) versus chemical gels for cost effectiveness and ease of deployment

How to Measure Success

Horizontal wells introduce complexity with extended laterals and multiple perforation clusters. However, consistent pressure jumps during post-flush periods confirm uniform diversion and signal effective well stimulation across all zones. This means the acid treatment is being evenly distributed throughout the entire horizontal section, so every part of the well gets a proper “cleaning,” not just the easiest spots.

Why Freshwater Gel Pills Are a Game-Changer in the Permian Basin

At Petroplex, we’ve had great success with freshwater gel pills, and our testing demonstrates that this method stands out among diversion agents. We’ve found they are an excellent choice due to their:

• Cost Efficiency — Lower material and operational expenses than mechanical diversion tools or specialty salts.
• Reliable Degradation — Lab-validated breakers ensure gels flush completely, restoring permeability without residue.
• Scalable Deployment — Simple mixing and pumping protocols allow repeatable staging across various well geometries.

Partner With Petroplex for Proven Results

Since early 2024, over 200 horizontal stimulation jobs in the Permian Basin have employed freshwater gel pills with predictable, quantifiable outcomes — a testament to their robustness under field conditions.

Acid-diverter systems, particularly gel-pill-based methods, offer operators a powerful strategy to reclaim lost production and extend well life in the Permian Basin. By combining data-driven design, rigorous lab testing and stagewise field execution, these treatments not only boost initial uplift but maintain enhanced flow rates for months.

Ready to maximize your well’s potential? Contact Petroplex today to explore how a tailored acid-diverter program can unlock new reserves in your aging horizontals.