bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vector beam generation based on spin-decoupling metasurface zone plate
Authors: Yue Zhen , Liu Jingyu , Li Jitao , Li Jie , Zheng Chenglong , Chen Mingyang , Xu Hang , Zhang Haijian , Yang Fan , Zhang Yating , Zhang Yan , Yao Jianquan
Published: May 2022

As singular beams, vector beams with inhomogeneous polarization distribution have found extensive application prospects in many fields, including optical information processing, high-resolution imaging, and quantum optics. Metasurfaces with strong ability to manipulate the polarization and phase of electromagnetic waves have been harnessed to generate vector beams. Among them, the proposal of metasurfaces with different responses to orthogonally polarized waves can undoubtedly enhance the flexibility of optical device design. Here, we introduce the diffractive optics (Fresnel zone plates) into the spin-decoupling metasurfaces, called the metasurface zone plates, utilized to engender desired vector beams. As a demonstration, we design two metasurface zone plates: one can generate a focused vector beam under linearly polarized incidence, and the other is exploited to engender a vector vortex beam. The simulated and measured results simultaneously demonstrate the feasibility and practicability of such a concept. Our work unlocks the potential of optical devices and may further promote the development of metasurface polarizers toward miniaturization and versatility.
Creating a culture of safety and respect through professional accountability: case study of the Ethos program across eight Australian hospitals
Authors: Churruca Kate , Pavithra Antoinette , McMullan Ryan , Urwin Rachel , Tippett Stephen , Cunningham Neil , Loh Erwin , Westbrook Johanna
Published: May 2022

Behaviour that is disrespectful towards others occurs frequently in hospitals, negatively impacts staff, and may undermine patient care. Professional accountability programs may address unprofessional behaviour by staff. This article examines a whole-of-hospital program, Ethos, developed by St Vincent’s Health Australia to address unprofessional behaviour, encourage speaking up, and improve organisational culture. Ethos consists of a bundle of tools, training, and resources, including an online system where staff can make submissions regarding their co-workers’ exemplary or unprofessional behaviour. Informal feedback is provided to the subject of the submission to recognise or encourage reflection on their behaviour. Following implementation in eight St Vincent’s Health Australia hospitals, the Ethos Messaging System has had 2497 submissions, 54% about positive behaviours. Peer messengers who deliver ‘Feedback for Reflection’ have faced practical challenges in providing feedback. Guidelines for the team who ‘triage’ Ethos messages have been revised to ensure only feedback that will promote reflection is passed on. Early evidence suggests Ethos has positively impacted staff, although evaluation is ongoing. The COVID-19 pandemic has required some adaptations to the program.
Navigating the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme: federal versus state government funding for high-cost medicines – a problem for public hospitals
Authors: Misko Jeanie , Jenkins Barry , Rawlins Matt
Published: May 2022

The funding of medication supply in Australian public hospitals is divided between the federal government’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and thestate or territory government who pay for the remaining medications not covered under the PBS. For some high-cost medications, such as the monoclonal antibody blinatumomab, the current criteria for PBS funding in public hospitals are challenging. The strict requirement for inpatient admission, due to the risk of potentially serious adverse effects, alongside a lack of PBS reimbursement, while a hospital inpatient, may result in the state bearing the cost. A retrospective review of five patients receiving blinatumomab at our hospital found that, on average, patients remained inpatients for longer than that stipulated to meet PBS funding criteria, predominantly due to adverse effects associated with the medication. This resulted in the state government paying for the medication in full. The upcoming National Medicines Policy review should address the increasing complexity of new medications and their access and funding.
Virtual visiting in the intensive care unit: implementation, utilisation and provider acceptance in an Australian metropolitan health service
Authors: Tan Sing Chee , Cross Anthony
Published: May 2022

We describe the design and implementation of an intensive care unit (ICU) virtual visiting program in a metropolitan ICU in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, to examine patterns of use, and describe clinician acceptance of this technology. This was a mixed-methods study, comprising a retrospective analysis of virtual visits from 18 August to 30 September 2020. Patterns of utilisation included duration and time of visits, as well as bandwidth used. A post-implementation survey on a Virtual Visiting program based on the technology acceptance model was sent to clinicians; results were reported on separate scales for usefulness and usability. Publicly available telecommunication solutions were unsuitable for virtual visiting, whereas dedicated telehealth solutions needed modification to improve accessibility by patients and families. During the study period, 69 virtual visits were made with a median length of 10 min (range 1–80 min). A total of 72.5% of calls were made during office hours (09:00–17:00 h), with the latest occurring at approximately 21:30 h. Virtual visits required a mean bandwidth of 1224 kbps (download) and 940 kbps (upload), and consumed 0.7 GB (range 0.0–7.0 GB) and 0.5 GB (range 0.0–6.7 GB) of download and upload data. Clinicians reported a mean score of 2 (range 1–4) for perceived usefulness and 3 (range 1–6) for the perceived ease of use. Virtual visiting is a feasible alternative in the ICU, with good acceptance by clinicians. Challenges include safety and usability of videoconferencing platforms, as well as bandwidth requirements. Future health service design should consider support for dedicated virtual visiting solutions, as well as ensuring adequate bandwidth capabilities for this service. Further studies are needed to assess patient and family acceptability of this technology.
Origins of hydrogen sulfide (H
Authors: Chalmers Gareth R. L. , Bustin Amanda A. , Sanlorenzo Andrea , Bustin R. Marc
Published: May 2022

The distribution and origin of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) within gas reservoirs is an important issue due to its toxicity and ability to corrode metal infrastructure, even at low concentrations (i.e. 50 ppm). H2S gas is regarded as a high priority for health and safety at drilling sites. The distribution of H2S, in some basins, can be inexplicable with a mix of sweet (no H2S) and sour (contains H2S) wells within one multi-well pad. Sour gas is a concern in some gas and coal fields in Australia which include Gippsland, Bowen and Cooper-Eromanga basins as well as in the North West Shelf with typical concentrations below 10 000 ppm. For example, the German Creek Formation (Bowen Basin) contains up to 77 ppm of H2S gas and coal seam gas producers will need to perform a risk assessment while exploring and developing this resource. There are multiple sources of H2S gas sulfur and this includes sulfate minerals, pyrite, organic sulfur or from frack water. This research utilises the isotopic variation in the sulfur and oxygen of potential sources, coupled with petrological analyses to determine H2S gas generation. Data is used to predict the gas distribution within the reservoirs to reduce exploration risks. One initial study on the Triassic Montney Formation in western Canada produces H2S gas at concentrations up to 220 000 ppm. Isotopic analyses suggest that the H2S is generated from either Triassic sulfates or a mixture of Triassic and Devonian sources and not solely from Devonian rocks as first expected.
Exploring the Thai and Malaysian decommissioning landscapes – identifying opportunities and challenges for Australia
Authors: Tung Aaron
Published: May 2022

Due to their various economic, environmental and socio-political impacts, oil and gas decommissioning activities attract a wide array of stakeholders, including joint-venture partners, contractors, governments, environmental non-for-profit organisations, academic institutions, recreational anglers and many others. As the first wave of oil and gas decommissioning activities dawns upon the Asia-Pacific region, stakeholder impacts have begun to take shape in the form of regulatory disputes, scope changes, schedule delays and safety incidents. As part of a wider research to enhance project managers’ understanding of stakeholder impacts on oil and gas decommissioning projects in Australia, the South-East Asian landscape was explored in order to identify and highlight any challenges and opportunities that could be relevant to supporting the development of the Australian oil and gas decommissioning industry. The study finds that while nations in South-East Asia are of close proximity to each other and can easily rely on one another for resource sharing, Australia appears to be geographically isolated 'down under'. In addition, Australia currently has various legislative and regulatory barriers that limit access to readily available oil and gas decommissioning yards, facilities and resources across South-East Asia. This article will review these opportunities and challenges to recommend possible ways forward for the Australian oil and gas decommissioning industry.
Looking down the (oil) barrel of a class action?
Authors: Freeman Anne , Griffith Tom
Published: May 2022

Class actions against oil and gas companies are nothing new. More than 15 years ago, Esso settled the action against it by businesses suffering property damage and economic loss from that damage following the Longford gas explosion for $A32.5 million. There have been other class actions following oil spills, and others by shareholders for alleged breaches of continuous disclosure obligations. With the focus of investors increasingly on climate change disclosure, and some courts now finding expanded duties of care owed in relation to climate change, oil and gas companies can expect to see more actions in the future, including claims of ‘greenwashing’, like the one issued by a shareholder against Santos in August 2021 relating to statements made in Santos’ 2020 annual report. This paper provides some practical tips for companies facing class action proceedings, including preparatory steps which can be taken, such as establishing internal and external teams, dealing with insurers, as well as preserving and locating relevant documents. It provides recommendations about appropriate internal and external communication about the claim so as to avoid issues like waiver of legal professional privilege and PR problems, and it addresses some enquiries which should be made about opponents, as well as the judge assigned to the matter. Specific considerations arise in funded class actions, in light of recent regulatory changes. Early checks should be made as to whether the litigation funder holds an Australian Financial Services Licence and whether the funding arrangement has been properly established as a managed investment scheme.
The future energy leader: a millennial dilemma
Authors: Mahapatra Polly
Published: May 2022

Undoubtedly, there is an industry-wide urgent need to build a strong talent pipeline for the future, especially in the face of climate change. The future energy leader must be multi-faceted and exceptionally skilled, with the further challenge to be able to humanise the industry. They must balance the need for energy affordability and security alongside climate neutrality and articulate this complex industry to those outside of it. While there is a general industry consensus that finding appropriate talent to plug these gaps is becoming increasingly difficult, little work has been done in the space of practical, implementable solutions to solve this issue. With current data suggesting an aging workforce and high percentage of industry retirements at our doorstep, the time is appropriate for research into the problem at hand. This paper methodically outlines the current dilemma being faced in the recruitment and retention of young professionals, with particular emphasis on the data trends and higher education statistics as relevant to the local demographic of Perth, Western Australia. The paper will also suggest what future skills should be prioritised in order to progress industry goals. This paper outlines the strategies that Chevron Australia has leveraged in order to tackle this issue including, but not limited to, industry engagement, university engagement, human capital trends and predictive analytics. This paper includes example case studies from within Chevron Australia used to tackle this issue with an aim to apply the strategies on an industry-wide scale to come to a collective resolution.
Passive microseismic – direct hydrocarbon sensing with minimal environmental impact
Authors: Debenham Helen , Smirnov Evgeny
Published: May 2022

A method for directly detecting hydrocarbons with minimal environmental impact is presented here with deployment examples from a recent Canning Basin project. To maintain their social license to operate, oil and gas explorers and producers must seek to reduce their environmental footprint and regulatory authorities are required to reduce impact to an acceptable and as low as reasonably practical level. This creates a window of opportunity for advanced, disruptive technologies, which avoid dry holes and shorten the appraisal and development timeframe, while minimising the impact on the environment. Low-frequency seismic is such a technology and here we describe its onshore application, we also briefly touch on the offshore application. Passive microseismic surveys are well known in engineering geology and seismology; however, in the oil and gas industry it is a relatively new geophysical area and their usage is increasing every year. Passive microseismic surveys are a solution both for exploration, de-risking near-field step-outs and siting infill wells in oil and gas accumulations. During August–September 2021, passive seismic data was acquired in the Canning Basin of Western Australia for Buru Energy. The author (Helen Debenham) was on site for the deployment and shares here details of the successes and challenges of data acquisition in the remote desert regions of Australia.
The continuing role of gas as the natural companion to renewable energy
Authors: Wilkes Martin
Published: May 2022

Four years ago I gave a presentation entitled ‘Repositioning Gas in the Energy Mix’, where we outlined the need to continue to invest in natural gas in order to enable the penetration of renewable energy into the market. In that presentation we highlighted the danger of the ‘green, cheap squeeze’ on gas; squeezed by cleaner renewables on the one hand, and cheaper coal on the other, and proposed changing the messaging away from seeing gas as a transition fuel to acknowledging the longer-term enabling role gas would have to play in the energy mix. Since then several countries have managed to achieve significant reductions in emissions due to power generation, and we now have evidence that supports the continuing role of natural gas in the energy mix. This presentation will review the progress made in emissions’ reductions over the past few years, examining the key issues and confirming the impact that increasing amounts of renewable energy has on existing power generation and supply systems. We will also examine and provide insights into the issues requirements for further reductions in emission levels.
The Reids Dome beds and its coal seam gas characteristics – Queensland’s latest coal seam gas target
Authors: Scott Steven G. , Glassborow Brent
Published: May 2022

Queensland’s coal seam gas production industry began in 1996 with production from the Permian Baralaba Coal Measures and Bandanna Formation located in the eastern and western Bowen Basin, respectively. It went to another level when production commenced from the Jurassic Walloon Coal Measures in 2005. Production in 2018/2019 amounted to nearly 1500 PJ with nearly 80% coming from the Walloon Coal Measures. The remaining 20% is sourced from the Late Permian Bandanna Formation, Baralaba Coal Measures and Moranbah Coal Measures. A minor volume comes from the Early Permian Cattle Creek Formation. The Early Permian Reids Dome beds are located in the Denison Trough, a graben complex located in the southwest Bowen Basin. The Reids Dome beds were deposited as the basal unit of variably sized grabens and half-grabens. The unit varies in thickness from 9 to >2770 m but the unit hasn’t been fully intersected where it is thickest. Net coal within the formation is also highly variable (<1 to >65 m). At present there has been no commercial production from the coals of the Reids Dome beds, but a number of small fields have reported commercial production from coals of the Early Permian Cattle Creek Formation. By definition, the Cattle Creek Formation was deposited in a marine environment and is contemporaneous with the upper Reids Dome beds. It is here suggested that coals intersected at these producing locations are located in the Reids Dome beds. The interpreted depositional centres for the Reids Dome beds underlie or are immediately adjacent to major Late Permian field developments with access to infrastructure and transmission. Ongoing exploration and appraisal work is continuing across the Denison Trough to fully understand the potential of these coals. Coals from the Reids Dome beds average >10 m3/tonne, >90% saturation >70% methane and up to 20% ethane.
Major geological surfaces of the Exmouth Plateau from the new Broadband PreSDM reprocessed 3D seismic data with full waveform inversion
Authors: Jian Feng Xu , Hadian Pooya , Doyle Stephen , Molyneux Simon , Wu Hongfeng
Published: May 2022

The Barrow Sub-basin and Exmouth Plateau, of Australia’s North West Shelf, contain Australia’s largest gas reserves, underpinning the three major LNG facilities, including Gorgon, Wheatstone and Pluto. In addition, there remains significant near-field exploration potential such as the Sasanof prospect. While there is full 3D seismic coverage in the basin, the existing 3D surveys are of different vintages covering only parts of the basin with diverse acquisition and processing parameters. Multi-Client Resources has produced an extensive 3D seismic reprocessing project (BEX-MC3D) incorporating 23 legacy 3D surveys to provide a seamless 25 570 km2 3D dataset. The BEX-MC3D was processed from field tape through DUG Technology’s advanced Broadband PreSDM processing sequence with Full Waveform Inversion (FWI) imaging. The BEX-MC3D provides one continuous superlative 3D dataset covering almost the entire Barrow Sub-basin and the Exmouth Plateau. Major geological surfaces corresponding to key tectonic events from overburden to reservoirs have been interpreted from the BEX-MC3D Priority area in the current study. These high-fidelity imaged surfaces form a basin-wide framework for: (1) rapid exploration lead and prospect identification through the creation of trap and reservoir visualisations; (2) improved reservoir connectivity analysis and modelling of producing and discovered fields to support better reservoir management and field development decisions; and (3) improved understanding of basin-burial history for reservoir quality and geo-mechanical property prediction. This paper will present and discuss major geological surfaces in the context of future exploration lead/prospect identification, reservoir characterisation for field development and management, and improving overall understanding of the basin history.
Simplicity and digitalisation – using GIS to reduce design and operation costs in gas gathering systems
Authors: Meynink Alex
Published: May 2022

With the drive to continually reduce the cost of connecting new Coal Seam Gas (CSG) wells, Worley developed new methodologies using commercial off-the-shelf software, and custom development, to automate engineering and improve operational efficiency for pipelines and gathering systems. One of the recent developments is an automated and data-driven approach to produce Gathering Network Diagrams (GNDs), an alternative to conventional Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs). On a recent project, Worley implemented a GND workflow capable of showing ~40 wells per A3 deliverable in conformance with intelligent drafting standards. This reduced ~2000 as-built P&IDs to ~200 GNDs (and associated standard details) with a significant improvement in quality and usability. Prior to generation, a site walkdown was conducted to address mismatches between as-built P&IDs, Geographic Information System (GIS) and what was actually installed at site. Our client now has a suite of GNDs that match the installed asset and are produced from the corporate GIS database, essentially their Digital Twin. Worley then focused on integrating flow assurance software with GIS allowing data-driven execution of future design packages to be incorporated into the master GNDs. We successfully integrated with PipeSIM and GAP, allowing for seamless transfer of hydraulic inputs from GIS to the modelling software. Engineers can now synchronise the confirmed process design back to GIS without producing red-lined and/or CAD-drafted deliverables which greatly improves efficiency and reduces human error. This paper demonstrates how digital automation can be applied to the CSG industry to significantly reduce cost and schedule whilst enabling data-driven operational efficiencies.
Viral mutations, vaccine effectiveness and rapid tests – COVID-19 risk management in the two largest LNG producing countries, Qatar and Australia
Authors: Jeremijenko Andrew
Published: May 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic created challenges for the oil and gas industry. Qatar experienced three significant waves during the pandemic that disproportionately affected the workers in shared accommodation. In Australia, the public health measures limited the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in the industry until the Omicron wave. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity was assessed in five oil and gas subcontractors and five hospital subcontractors in Qatar between 21 June and 9 September 2020. Vaccine effectiveness was assessed in Qatar. Vaccine effectiveness in an LNG tanker crew off Gladstone was calculated. The initial study in Qatar included 4970 craft manual workers (CMWs) who were mostly men (95.0%). Infection positivity (antibody and/or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive) ranged from 62.5% (95% CI: 58.3–66.7%) to 83.8% (95% CI: 79.1–87.7%). Only five infections were severe and one was critical – an infection severity rate of 0.2% (95% CI: 0.1–0.4%). Rapid antibody tests (RATs) were effective in diagnosis of the SARS-CoV-2 virus infections. Vaccine effectiveness against severe, critical or fatal infections were above 90% in both the Qatar and Australian studies, but protection against infection waned significantly after 6 months. In Qatar and Australia, the industry implemented effective control measures including the use of RATs, PCR tests, test, trace, isolation, quarantine (TTIQ) and vaccination. In both countries, the LNG industry collaborated with public health experts and other experts and was involved in research to assess and manage the risk of COVID-19. Production of LNG was not affected. Participation in public health research in both countries contributed to important scientific publications and protected the industry. COVID-19 may become endemic.
Can hologram technology promote family connection and combat anxiety and depression in oil and gas employees?
Authors: Valadez Albert A. , Jeremijenko Andrew
Published: May 2022

Younger oil and gas workers suffer more from anxiety and depression than their older counterparts. Several factors contribute to emotional distress, but isolation and family disconnect are two predominant contributing conditions. Separation from social support results in missed milestones such as holidays, birthdays and anniversaries. A large sector of oil and gas employees is young, primarily male, with an average age of 36, with 22% being between 20 and 24 years of age. For some, employment in oil and gas marks the first time they are separated from family. Others are parents with children under the age of ten. These young employees are members of Gen-Z and technology natives who have a natural preference for innovative telecommunications. Members in this demographic are familiar and comfortable with virtual reality in gaming and communication. In the post-Covid era, most have grown accustomed to web communication. Presently, technology has evolved beyond two-dimensional interaction. Mixed reality involves using holograms to provide ‘telepresence’ through holo-teleportation and provides an in vivo experience for both the employee and his family members. This technology allows participants to have a virtual presence resulting in a live-lived experience with loved ones complete with familiar surroundings and objects. A realistic virtual presence is thought to mitigate the effects of separation.
Conceptual model of the Lower Permian Kingia Sandstone (northern Perth Basin, Western Australia) as an alternative energy resource
Authors: Meckel Trey , Wright Matthew , Blair Graham , Ballesteros Mark , Farley Andrew , Cortis Anthony
Published: May 2022

The geothermal potential of the Kingia aquifer in the northern Perth Basin has been identified. In order to further assess resource potential, the occurrence, conditions, and properties of the Kingia Sandstone have been considered further. A new regional correlation supports the Kingia Sandstone being a regionally extensive unit deposited along the northern margin of the syn-depositional Dandaragan Trough. The unit is part of a falling-stage to lowstand system containing lower and upper shoreface, coastal, beach, and estuarine sands. Gross Kingia Sandstone thickness varies from 16 m on flanking terraces to at least 71 m in the basin depocenter. At depth, reservoir properties are preserved where iron-rich clay grain coatings inhibit cementation and preserve primary porosity. In such cases, net reservoir ranges from 3 to 58 m thick (18 m mean) and net porosity range is 12–19 p.u. (15 p.u. mean). The prevailing geothermal gradient is ~37°C/km with heat flow in excess of 90 mW/m2. Resultant Kingia aquifer temperatures exceed 115°C. Given the presence of hot, porous Kingia aquifer, the potential for geothermal power generation is strong. Production of Kingia brine to surface facilities allows for power conversion via established binary Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) technology. A scalable Kingia opportunity could help to meet Western Australia’s decarbonisation aspirations by contributing to the replacement of coal-fired and gas-fired power plants, plus supply of low-carbon power to local urea, hydrogen, and gas projects. An enhanced understanding of Kingia porosity distribution, reservoir compartmentalisation, flow performance, and ultimate energy delivery remain key uncertainties subject to future de-risking activities.
Multiple tracers for dis-connectivity of shallow aquifers, alluvium, and coal seam gas wells in the Great Artesian Basin
Authors: Pearce J. K. , Golding S. D. , Baublys K. A. , Hofmann H. , Cendón D. I. , Herbert St. J. , Hayes P. J.
Published: May 2022

The potential for connectivity between water supply aquifers and gas reservoirs raises community, government, and scientific concerns. Methane can occur naturally, making it difficult to determine whether water bore methane levels are being influenced by nearby gas operations. This poses a challenge in the Surat Basin, where coal seam gas production operates alongside groundwater using industries (including feedlots, agriculture, mines). Water and gas samples were taken from water bores and coal seam gas (CSG) wells in the Walloon Coal Measures and from overlying aquifers (nominally, the Springbok, Gubberamunda, Orallo, and Mooga sandstones) and the Condamine Alluvium, for stable isotopes of gases, groundwater and dissolved inorganic carbon, as well as strontium isotopes. Most of the sampled water bores had isotopic signatures distinct from CSG wells, though a minority from gassy Springbok Sandstone and Walloon Coal Measure water bores could not be distinguished from CSG wells. In those few cases, neither connectivity or dis-connectivity could be confirmed. Alluvium and shallow aquifer samples have higher R36Cl values distinct from the older CSG production waters, as is the case with most 14C measurements. Waters from the Condamine River indicate potential surface water connectivity with the alluvium. The use of multiple tracers has shown that groundwater in some aquifers can be differentiated from groundwater in the coal seam gas reservoir and hence are useful tools in identifying where groundwater connectivity occurs. Understanding this connectivity forms another line of evidence to improve impact prediction models on a regional scale as well as providing information on connectivity in local groundwater investigations.
Geomechanical rock properties of the Officer Basin
Authors: Bailey Adam H. E. , Wang Liuqi , Dewhurst Dave N. , Anderson Jade R. , Carr Lidena K. , Henson Paul A.
Published: May 2022

The Officer Basin spanning South Australia and Western Australia is the focus of a regional stratigraphic study being undertaken as part of the Exploring for the Future (EFTF) program, an Australian Government initiative dedicated to increasing investment in resource exploration in Australia. Despite numerous demonstrated oil and gas shows, the Officer Basin remains a frontier basin for energy exploration with significant uncertainties due to data availability. Under the EFTF Officer–Musgrave Project, Geoscience Australia acquired new geomechanical rock property data from forty core samples in five legacy stratigraphic and petroleum exploration wells that intersected Paleozoic and Neoproterozoic aged intervals. These samples were subjected to unconfined compressive rock strength tests, Brazilian tensile strength tests and laboratory ultrasonic measurements. Petrophysical properties were also characterised via X-ray computerised tomography scanning, grain density and porosity-permeability analysis. Accurate characterisation of static geomechanical rock properties through laboratory testing is essential. In the modern exploration environment, these datasets are a precompetitive resource that can simplify investment decisions in prospective frontier regions such as the Officer Basin.
Queensland’s risk-based petroleum and gas regulator
Authors: Date William , Stone Mark
Published: May 2022

Resources Safety & Health Queensland (RSHQ) is the new independent regulator for occupational safety and health in Queensland’s petroleum and gas, mining, quarrying and explosives sector. RSHQ was created by the Queensland Government on 1 July 2020 as a singular focussed statutory body. It is a stand-alone organisation quite separate from its former portfolio Department – the Department of Natural Resources Mines and Energy. RSHQ’s vision is ‘zero serious harm’. In pursuit of this lofty vision – which is defined as operations and activities free from fatality, hospitalisation and confirmed cases of disease – RSHQ applies its regulatory approach which is risk-based and data-driven. This paper outlines the regulator’s approach, values and principles to supporting the upstream petroleum sector in Queensland in order to protect its workers and meet its obligations under law. Importantly, RSHQ compliance principles and practice should be understood by operators, contractors, workers and other key stakeholders in the petroleum sector. Case studies demonstrate the efficacy of this approach as it applies to the construction, operation and decommissioning of wells, gathering systems and plant. Operators, contractors and service companies will significantly benefit from reading and hearing more from the regulator at the APPEA Conference in Brisbane in 2022.
Impacts of exposure to a seismic source survey on silverlip pearl oysters (
Authors: Parsons Miles J. G. , Speed Conrad W. , McCauley Robert D. , Fisher Rebbeca , Dang Cecile , Barneche Diego R. , Semmens Jayson , Newman Stephen , Day Ryan , Gholipourkanani Hosna , Meekan Mark G.
Published: May 2022

Between 2018 and 2021, AIMS and its partners conducted a large-scale experiment to investigate the effect of exposure to a 3D seismic survey on pearl oysters. In August 2018, ≈11 000 adult wild silverlip pearl oysters (Pinctada maxima) were collected and attached to bottom culture lines to acclimatise for 1 month at a holding lease site, 40 km off Broome, WA. These oysters were split across rows configured parallel to each other at seven horizontal distances up to 6000 m from a ‘zero line’. In September 2018, we sailed a commercial seismic vessel along one 20 km-long inactive (vessel control) sail line along the zero line, followed by six operational (exposure) sail lines, at increasing distances from the zero line, with each line separated in time by either 12 or 24 h. This design resulted in groups of pearl oysters with 35 different exposure histories (seven distances, five exposure distances) that were then transferred to undergo either lethal biophysical sampling or pearl seeding for a ‘grow-out’ study of pearl production. Biophysical sampling included immunology tests, primarily using flow cytometry and gene expression changes in nacre- and stress-associated genes. Audits of oyster growth and condition were conducted at various time points between the exposure period and harvesting of the seeded oysters. The number and quality of pearls produced by each exposure group was assessed 2 years after exposure (December 2020). The results of these analyses are being finalised for presentation.
Coexistence 2.0 – maturing the coexistence model in Queensland
Authors: Thomas Jon
Published: May 2022

For the gas industry to continue to thrive in a changing world, the evolution of coexistence will need to consider the multi-faceted aspects of community expectations such as the environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors, community expectations of a decarbonised energy future, technological advancements and changing government regulations. This paper does not define coexistence, rather it examines how the concept of coexistence in Queensland is a process of evolution as the gas industry in Queensland has matured from the perspective of the GasFields Commission Queensland (the Commission). The Commission was officially established in 2013 to ‘manage and improve the sustainable coexistence of landholders, regional communities and the onshore gas industry in Queensland’. There is no single means to obtain a good practice of coexistence. It requires a tailored approach dependant on the individual stakeholder, and will require the use of multiple tools, consistent engagement, transparent communication and a fit-for-purpose regulatory framework. Importantly, coexistence is a concept that requires a shared responsibility and is an enduring relationship.
Route selection with artificial intelligence: pseudocode and demonstration of a multi-use artificial intelligence algorithm to perform offshore pipeline, cable and umbilical route selection and optimisation
Authors: Lim Nigel , Lim Lucas
Published: May 2022

Routing pipelines, cables and umbilicals in offshore locations represents a key activity with potential impacts for design, installation and operation. Deficient routing may result in (a) increased offshore construction durations (b) requirements for engineered mitigations from geophysical/geotechnical constraints and (c) unforeseen requirements for intervention during operations. Despite this, offshore route selection is restricted to repetitive, inefficient, and iterative processes between draughters, engineers and asset owners. Now, digital technologies enable optimised solutions for cables and pipelines. This paper presents the development and application of a complex routing algorithm using modern software code frameworks. The algorithm serves as an artificial intelligence platform by replicating engineering expertise. This identifies commonly encountered routing constraints such as geophysical features, seabed gradients, existing offshore facilities. Ideal geometric parameters are then determined to minimise route costs. The algorithm structure will be presented in pseudocode, which will define/describe the digital simulation of route selection within the algorithm. This includes sequences such as (a) processing of offshore geotechnical survey data, (b) recreating offshore locales and routes in a data environment, (c) implementation of geospatial intersection detection, (d) 3-dimensional route length optimisation and (e) automated route selection criteria. This replicates the sequence of manual processes undertaken by engineering experts into a digital realm, thus eliminating time-consumption, repetition and human error. Finally, the algorithm will be demonstrated in offshore case studies with challenging conditions such as highly disturbed seabeds and routing obstacles. Thus, engineers in the future developments can better answer the question ‘What is the best route?’.
Ground surface monitoring for CO
Authors: Salimzadeh Saeed , Kasperczyk Dane , Chen Zuorong , Movassagh Abbas , Arjomand Elaheh , Mow Wen Shen (Vincent) , Kear James
Published: May 2022

Tracking the migration of injected CO2 is critical to understanding the performance of subsurface intervals selected for CO2 sequestration. Subsurface CO2 injection may cause a deformation at the surface of the earth. Measuring and analysing the shape and magnitude of this surface deformation provides confidence that sequestered CO2 will remain in the target formations and can alert operators to the existence of hidden faults or fractures which may necessitate redesign of the injection schedule or remediation of the geological hazards. Surface deformation information for onshore injection operations can be obtained via Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) satellite imagery or an array of high-precision tiltmeters installed in 10–15 m deep boreholes. However, in the case of offshore injection operations, InSAR data is not available. Due to the lack of tilt data at In Salah field at Krechba, Algeria, synthetic tilt data has been produced using a 3D forward model. The synthetic tilt time-series data at ten locations around each injection well has been used in inverse analysis. Results show that the shape and direction of the CO2 plume in the subsurface can be accurately determined through inverse analysis of the tilt time-series data.
Greenhouse gases emissions evaluation for prospective energy projects
Authors: Ang Emelyn , Kumar Munish
Published: May 2022

Greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory assessment, monitoring and auditing is becoming increasingly routine in oil and gas project evaluations. Already, some companies carry an ‘internal’ carbon cost reflected in projected capital and operational expenditure. Early evaluation allows for optimal planning of GHG mitigation and economic analysis inclusive of carbon costs, allaying concerns of investors and lenders. The challenge in evaluating pre-development, however, is the lack of real data and thus, uncertainties in field production. In this paper, we demonstrate the use of a Monte Carlo probabilistic method to better account for uncertainties in production, gas-oil ratio (GOR) and operation loads in a case study of a prospective oil field in offshore Western Australia. We compared the results to the scenario-based deterministic GHG emissions evaluation of the same field and found the deterministic estimates to be extreme representatives of the range of possible emission quantities, due to GOR and production uncertainties. From a breakdown of annual emissions, we also identified the emissions from flaring of excess natural gas to be one of the most significant mitigatable sources of emissions, due to the unexpectedly large production of gas over the project lifetime. Avoiding the flaring of excess gases alone could reduce the project’s emissions by ~44%. Through identifying these key sources and uncertainties, we are able to flag such unexpected, mitigatable sources of emissions at an early stage and provide a representative range of projected emissions, thus assisting the operator to make informed decisions in the field development.
The business of growing a hydrogen business: lessons from disruptive innovation theory
Authors: Wheeldon Megan
Published: May 2022

To date, the oil and gas transition to hydrogen production has largely been focused on the techno-economic feasibility of hydrogen hubs. While techno-economics are essential for business case development, so too is the requirement to adjust business models and organisational culture to support new market entry. To analyse this perspective, this paper has reviewed Christensen’s theory of disruptive innovation and its application to hydrogen business growth in incumbent oil and gas companies. In doing so, the author presents the conclusion that disruptive innovation in a hydrogen context will not be the technology itself, but rather in how organisations innovate their business models to meet shifting market priorities.
Fostering employee and community engagement through diversity, equity, and inclusion strategic goals
Authors: Campbell-Wray Jeremy , Durham Nicole
Published: May 2022

As an energy technology company, our success is deeply linked with the creativity and engagement of our people. At Baker Hughes, we foster this through working to build a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment where everyone can bring their authentic selves and talents. A focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is increasingly prioritised among the investor community and is a critical component of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) work. At a global level, Baker Hughes has four strategic DEI goals that guide us on our DEI journey: Diverse Workforce, Inclusive Culture, Supplier Diversity, and Customer and Community. This paper reviews how these strategic goals are being actioned in Australia through our community engagement, industry collaboration, multicultural education, and employee resource groups. These actions have supported employees through the challenges of 2020, boosted morale, empowered teamwork, and enhanced relationships with our peers. These initiatives include environmental volunteering, coding for kids STEM events, an internal ‘culture shock’ series, and targeted donations following recent bushfires. These and other initiatives can be shared and scaled across companies or industries.
Modelling of High Point Vents in water gathering systems – a new approach using Simcenter Flomaster
Authors: Sprengel Jurgen , Milano Pedro , Sfand Ryan , Kolak Doug
Published: May 2022

The cost-efficient extraction of coal seam gas (CSG) is the ultimate objective of every CSG project. One challenge is that gas holdups in water gathering lines can significantly obstruct water removal by causing higher back pressure on the wells, thus resulting in lower dewatering rates with subsequent delays in expected gas production. Gas holdups originate from entrained gas entering the wellhead pumps and from dissolved gas bubbling off in water gathering pipelines. Gas holdups are mechanically removed by High Point Vents (HPVs) installed at pipeline high points, with the efficiency of gas removal directly impacting project economics. A new hydraulic modelling approach enables the realistic simulation of two-phase flow regimes in a single-phase solver by utilising hydraulic components designed to separate gas and water. This modelling process offers major advantages over the traditional gas water ratio approach, as it enables the addition of individual HPVs to be analysed for their impact on the pressure reduction in water gathering pipelines. Modelling can be performed for any network complexity in either steady-state or transient simulation, enabling the analysis of the entire water gathering network over its life span of several decades. An operating envelope of well and pipeline pressure can be generated for an idealistic gas-free network, showing the lowest pressure and a network with fully developed gas holdups and resulting in the maximum possible back pressure. The paper includes a benchmarking study of an existing complex water gathering system confirming the practicality and accuracy of this game changing modelling approach.
CO
Authors: Bagheri Mohammad B. , Wallace Matthew , Kuuskraa Vello , Nourollah Hadi , Raab Matthias , Duff Tim
Published: May 2022

This paper discusses the potential for storing CO2 and producing lower carbon intensity oil from onshore oil fields in the Cooper and Surat basins of South Australia and Queensland. A comprehensive database was compiled for the oil fields in the basins above, including the key required data to assess the potential of the basins for CO2 enhanced oil recovery (EOR). The South Australia and Queensland oil field databases contain 140 reservoirs with a combined original oil in-place of 1497 million barrels. These reservoirs have, to date, produced a total of 382 million barrels, with 458 million barrels of expected ultimate recovery (EUR). The database was compiled with support from Santos, Bridgeport, and Beach Energy. These reservoirs were screened further based on their size and pressure. The next step was to model the application of a CO2 flood in each of the shortlisted reservoirs using the CO2 EOR Prophet model developed by Advanced Resources International. The modelling showed that joint implementation of CO2 storage and CO2 EOR would allow the Cooper and Surat basins to store 116–158 million metric tons of CO2 and produce 248–518 million barrels of additional oil. Creating hubs and clustering fields based on their geographical location helps to reduce the cost of infrastructure and CO2 transportation. Therefore, the reservoirs in this study, were grouped and anchored to the most dominant oil reservoir that has the largest CO2 storage and EOR capacity. The results of the clusters are summarised in this paper.
Carbon capture clusters
Authors: Riordan Helen , Cohen Phil , Elkington Stella
Published: May 2022

Net zero is an endeavour that will impact every corner of the world. We need global communication and collaboration. To move fast, the transition must become more efficient and spread the best solutions far and wide. For difficult to decarbonise industries, collaboration is essential. The other essential ingredient is policy. The UK banned diesel and petrol car sales from 2030. This is driving electric vehicle manufacturing and supply chains. The EU banned single-use plastics from 2021. Consequently, Coca Cola Europe announced 100% of their bottles would be based on recycled plastic. Norway introduced a carbon tax in 1991 to encourage research into low-carbon solutions. It became the first country to geologically sequester CO2 and the first to do it from an LNG facility. Ten years after the tax was introduced, Norway’s carbon emissions had dropped by 14%. Policies influence emissions. They drive not only environmental outcomes but also sustainable growth and the ability to future-proof their economies. In 2007 and 2012, the UK announced funding for a commercial-scale carbon capture and storage project, both times the programs were aborted. A third attempt, this time focussing on decarbonising four industrial clusters by 2030, was announced in 2018 along with the first ‘net-zero’ carbon cluster by 2040, with the support of a number of UK policies it is expected to progress to construction. This paper discusses the journey from policy through partnerships to the development of Carbon Capture and Hydrogen Clusters in the UK and looks at lessons learnt for Australia.