Produced water remediation processes can use injected water to increase the amount of water that is available for production. Produced water is derived from the production and exploration of oil and gas as a byproduct. It is produced in large amounts and is a vital aspect of the economic viability of the oil and gas industry.
Origins of Produced Water
Produced water is found in underground formations from where it is released during production process of oil and gas. With conventional wells produced water rises to the surface and is accompanies by gas or oil. The water makes contact with hydrocarbons for long periods of time and adopts chemical formulations of the gas.
The chemical characteristics of produced water depend on aspects such as geological formations. Produced water mainly consists of substances such as salt, oil and various chemicals. Produced water generally requires treatment before it can be deemed fit for use. The types of substances that are contained in the produced water will help to determine what kind of treatment is most ideal.
Produced water is generated in large amounts and accounts for the highest byproduct volume in oil and gas production. When oil and gas are extracted from reservoirs that are situated underground they are typically found with brine that is commonly known as produced water.
Impact on Environment and Regulations
The advancement of reservoirs and produced water remediation methods cause an increase in quantities of water produced. Produced water is a complex mixture of chemicals and its production caused adjustments in factors such as temperature. When gas or oil is removed from reservoirs it is inevitable for water to be involved in the process.
A major development in the study of produced water has been the impact it has had on the environment and regulations in the industry. The regulations and implementation vary in different regions. Operators need to be fully aware of the regulations that have been put in place.
Choosing Treatment Techniques
It is important to consider the long term practicality of the techniques use to deal with produced water when making a choice regarding viable solutions. The methods that are available for carrying out produced water treatment include chemical and biological processes.
Operators in the oil and gas industry opt for various water treatment solutions that range from water injections to discharging the water back to the environment in accordance with set regulations. The environmental impact and economic potential has heightened research efforts regarding produced water remediation.
The management of produced water management is an important aspect of the oil and gas industry owing to its potential as a fresh resource and environmental impact. Click on to Hedenvironmentalsystems.com.
