Produced water (PW) is the largest volume waste product generated during oil and natural gas exploration and production. PW must be treated prior to storage, disposal, or reuse for any purpose such as hydraulic fracturing. While PW characteristics and treatment plans differ considerably, nearly all PW management must include controlling microbial populations and activity.
ISSUE: Microbial growth and activity pose a myriad of problems increasing CAPEX and OPEX including microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC), biofouling, and sulfide production.
IMPACT: Nearly all PW management includes controlling microbial populations. No single biocide is best for all systems at all times. Microbial populations adapt to conditions, nutrients, and biocides. Biocide effectiveness must be monitored and evaluated.
THREATS: Corrosion + Shelf Life + Health + Safety + CAPEX + OPEX.
PATH TO RESOLUTION: Accurate quantification and comprehensive understanding of the microbial community give you the crucial information needed to evaluate PW management. Our molecular microbiological methods (MMMs) provide more accurate quantification of key microorganisms like sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) than cultivation methods and more comprehensive identification of the microorganisms present. Our analysis is 100% unbiased. Microbial Insights does not sell biocides or other treatments. We provide the MMMs and reporting that help you make the most informed decisions, based on the best possible data and analysis.
