Dispersive effects on the multi-layer porous media flows with permeable and impermeable interfaces

We investigate dispersive effects on the linear stability of multi-layer porous media flow models of enhanced oil recovery for two different types of interfaces: permeable and impermeable interfaces. Results presented are relevant for the design of smarter interfaces in the available parameter space of Capillary number, Peclet number, longitudinal and transverse dispersion and the viscous profile of the middle layer. The stabilization capacity of each of these two interfaces is explored numerically and conditions for complete dispersive stabilization are identified for each of these two types of interfaces. Several key results will be presented including our finding that for most values of the flow parameters, permeable interfaces suppress flow instability more than impermeable interfaces. Time permitting, full simulation results will also be presented.