bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prioritising areas for conservation within Tropical Important Plant Areas of the British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Authors: Dolata Michalla Alicja , Woodfield-Pascoe Nancy , Heller Thomas , Dani Sanchez Michele , Bárrios Sara , Schill Steven R. , Karlsson Nyed Patrik , Hamilton Martin Allen , Grant Keith , Clubbe Colin , Dalsgaard Bo
Published: April 2024

Oceanic islands are particularly vulnerable to the global decline of biological diversity, suffering disproportionally large losses of endemic species. A primary tool for mitigating species loss is the establishment of protected area networks. The 2030 Global Biodiversity Framework target calls for the protection of 30% of Earth’s land surface by 2030. This study identifies areas within the Tropical Important Plant Areas network of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), to better inform the expansion of the current protected area network with the objective of conserving the BVI’s unique flora. We identified and applied conservation targets for five threatened habitats and 34 species of conservation concern, including four endemic to the BVI. A total of 5,248 georeferenced plant records for the 34 species collected through decades of collaborative work between the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands and the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, along with the distribution of five threatened habitats were used within the decision support system MARXAN to identify four spatial portfolios to guide the expansion of the BVI’s current protected area network. Highlighting the need to expand the current (2007–2017) Protected Areas System Plan in the BVI, we found that the current Plan only covers 15% of terrestrial land and does not meet the conservation targets for plants and habitats. The portfolios identified in our analysis efficiently expand the current Protected Areas System Plan to strategically expand coverage for all conservation features, with two main portfolios reaching all defined conservation targets for protection. Notably, to evaluate options not requiring land purchase, we extracted areas within state-owned Crown land from two main identified portfolios and found that the two Crown land-portfolios could protect 28% and 23% of the BVI, respectively, while meeting the targets for most plants of conservation concern. However, to reach 30% land protection and meet the conservation targets for all plant species, including endemics, private land would need to be considered for this inclusion within the protected area network. Our results provide science-based guidance for the selection of candidate protected area expansion sites that include threatened plants and habitats for reaching the 2030 Biodiversity Framework targets. While systematic conservation planning can provide guidance on protected area expansion, it is important to evaluate and prioritise conservation actions, based on multiple solutions and available resources. We recommend similar approaches are applied more broadly throughout the Caribbean and other archipelagos across the world.
Convergence results for cyclic-orbital contraction in a more generalized setting with application
Authors: Ahmad Haroon , Shahab Sana , Mobarak Wael F. M. , Dutta Ashit Kumar , Abolelmagd Yasser M. , Shaikh Zaffar Ahmed , Anjum Mohd
Published: April 2024

In the realm of double-controlled metric-type spaces, we investigated obtaining fixed points using the application of cyclic orbital contractive conditions. Diverging from conventional approaches utilized in standard metric spaces, our technique took a unique route due to the unique features of our structure. We demonstrated the significance of our outcomes through exemplary cases, clarifying the breadth of our results through comprehensive investigations. Significantly, our work not only improved and broadened earlier findings in the literature, but also offered unique notions that were discussed in our explanatory notes. Towards the end of our inquiry, we used insights obtained from previous discoveries to develop a second-order differential equation. This equation was an effective tool for dealing with the second class of Fredholm integral problems. In conclusion, this investigation extended our examination of double-controlled metric type spaces by providing new insights on fixed point theory, expanding on prior debates and building a substantial road towards solving a class of integral equations.
La desserte aérienne de La Réunion et de Mayotte ou les enjeux d’accessibilité de deux départements français de l’océan Indien
Authors: Lamy-Giner Marie-Annick
Published: April 2024

Cet article invite à une comparaison, en termes de transport et de mobilité, entre les deux départements français de l’océan Indien, La Réunion et Mayotte. Ce faisant, elle invite à appréhender les liens aériens que ces deux territoires ont établis avec leur métropole d’un côté et leur environnement régional, de l’autre. Il s’agit donc de soulever la question centrale de l’accessibilité insulaire par le prisme des transports aériens, lesquels serviront de fils rouge à l’analyse. L’accessibilité se définit comme la plus grande facilité à rejoindre un lieu à partir d’un ou de plusieurs autres lieux à l’aide de tout ou partie des moyens de transport à disposition. « L’accessibilité d’un espace à un lieu central peut justement être définie comme l’ensemble des chemins minimaux de tous les lieux à ce centre. Les chemins peuvent être évalués en distance physique (parcourue ou perçue), temps de parcours, coût, voire agrément. » L’accessibilité constitue un facteur primordial dans le désenclavement des espaces insulaires, et établit la dialectique ouverture-fermeture des îles. Manifestement, les espaces insulaires ne connaissent pas tous le même niveau d’accessibilité. Entre les îles qui sont en marge et celles qui sont au cœur de la mondialisation, le gradient est large. Certaines sont en queue d’archipel, mal ou peu reliées aux autres îles, alors que d’autres s’imposent comme des carrefours.
Une approche prospective des coûts de la chaîne logistique amont par la méthode PREVA dans un contexte de valorisation des algues sargasses
Authors: Lanneau Katie , Bilioniere Maurice
Published: April 2024

L’objectif de cet article est d’étudier les coûts de la chaîne logistique amont dans un contexte de valorisation des algues sargasses. Il s’agit d’une approche prospective dont la méthodologie retenue consiste en la modélisation d’une chaîne logistique amont par un couplage de la simulation à évènements discrets avec une valorisation des processus coûts selon la méthode activity-based costing (ABC). La méthode Process Evaluation (PREVA) qui en découle est jugée pertinente pour évaluer simultanément les flux financiers et les flux physiques d’un processus logistique. Les fréquences d’échouages établies pour l’arrivée de l’input sargasses ont été associées à deux hypothèses de calcul des coûts de transport : une forfaitaire et une à la tournée. L’implémentation des processus de la collecte et du transport des algues sargasses jusqu’au site hypothétique de valorisation fournit de premiers résultats en faveur du coût forfaitaire, globalement plus avantageux pour l’ensemble des sites.
Inégalités de niveau de vie en Nouvelle-Calédonie, l’impact du nickel : mesure et décomposition
Authors: Chantreuil Frédéric , Lebon Isabelle
Published: April 2024

Avec 9 % des réserves mondiales, la Nouvelle-Calédonie est par essence une terre de nickel. Fondamental pour le marché du travail calédonien, le nickel représente 20 % de la richesse marchande créée en 2019 sur le territoire. Dans cet article, nous cherchons à identifier la manière dont l’activité minière structure le territoire en s’intéressant aux niveaux de vie mesurés à partir des caractéristiques des logements et des équipements des ménages. À partir des inégalités de niveau de vie mesurées en 2009 et 2014 pour différentes aires géographiques, nous montrons sans ambiguïté l’amélioration et la convergence des niveaux de vie des Calédoniens dans cet intervalle. Finalement, la décomposition des inégalités de niveau de vie à la Shapley laisse apparaître une réduction de la contribution de l’activité minière aux inégalités qui tendrait à prouver que la richesse produite par cette activité se diffuse de mieux en mieux à l’ensemble de l’économie calédonienne.
Sous l’empathie, le rappel à l’Ordre. Itinéraire réflexif d’une recherche sur les mis en cause pour violences sexuelles
Authors: Bolanos Mallaury
Published: April 2024

Cet article propose de restituer l’itinéraire réflexif d’une recherche sur les mis en cause pour violences sexistes et/ou sexuelles, à partir d’une situation d’enquête précise. Il s’agira, d’une part, de mettre en lumière la singularité des enjeux propres à la réalisation d’un entretien auprès d’un homme accusé de cyberharcèlement sexiste et de harcèlement sexuel et, d’autre part, de montrer en quoi ces enjeux peuvent être généralisés quel que soit l’objet de la recherche ou le terrain arpenté.
Psychological Well-Being and Language Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Otiende Josephine Atieno
Published: April 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the landscape of education worldwide, leading to a significant shift towards remote learning and virtual classrooms. Language learning, an essential component of education, has also undergone a drastic transformation during this period. This chapter proposes evidence-based interventions and strategies to enhance the psychological well-being of language learners and educators in similar crises in the future. It also looks at the psychological well-being of language learners and educators, with a specific focus on examining the challenges and opportunities that emerged during this unprecedented time. Additionally, it puts forth a set of evidence-based interventions and strategies aimed at fortifying the mental and emotional health of both language learners and educators. These proposed measures serve as a proactive blueprint to navigate similar crises that may arise in the future, ensuring a more resilient and adaptive educational ecosystem.
Cultural Perspectives on Health Communication
Authors: Gore Manisha Nitin , Patil Reshma , Pathak Revati
Published: April 2024

Communication is a fundamental aspect of human existence, serving as a platform for sharing information and conveying symbolic meaning. Public health communication is crucial for disease prevention, health promotion, emergency preparedness, and vaccine advocacy. A qualitative study applied the framework of 'Communication Anthropology' to understand cultural sensitivity, contextual nuances, recommendations within a specific tribal community in western Maharashtra, India. Themes “Uncovering the Sources of Health Communication Dynamics in a Tribal Community,” “Impact of Media and Technology on Tribal Community Health and Lifestyle,” and “Cultural Influences on Tribal Health Behavior” emerged from the study. Enhancing health communication for India's tribal populations requires culturally tailored strategies. Involving local communities is recommended, leveraging traditional art and local artists to convey health messages effectively. Integrating multimedia such as radio jingles and videos, incentivizing healthcare workers, and utilizing visual aids with simplified language can further enhance health communication.
Public Health Communication and the Exclusion of Minority Languages in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mathe Limukani , Motsaathebe Gilbert
Published: April 2024

Public health communication is imperative to every livelihood including minorities. Language, however, remains one of the fundamentals of communication that can make the message reach the people. This chapter focuses on health awareness campaigns on Facebook community radio to analyse public health communication in Zimbabwe's minority languages. The authors used community radio platforms on the assumption that local languages such as minority languages can at least find space on community radio. However, a qualitative content analysis on radio content on Facebook reveals the dominance of Shona (major indigenous language) and English in public health communication by health authorities and representatives of the ruling party. There were a few exceptions of minority languages used in code-switch with English. Theorising effective communication to minorities, this chapter notes that governments should prioritise public health communication in minority languages through open collaborative networks by making use of language translation and community leadership in health awareness campaigns.
Communicating Sexuality and Reporting Reproductive Health Issues Among the Akan
Authors: Aggrey Kwesi , Sackey Bismark Odum , Boateng Priscilla Aboagyewaa
Published: April 2024

Societies structure their communication relationships in a variety of ways. The Akan in Ghana have a peculiar way of communicating issues relating to their sexuality. They find it difficult mentioning the real names of the human sex organs; they prefer employing various metaphors to signify these. It is not clear what the reasons are and how feasible this becomes when they (Akan) are confronted with reporting reproductive health since it is usually considered important for patients to indicate specific parts of the body that ail for appropriate diagnosis and healthcare. The study investigated how the Akan communicate sexuality generally, and how this affects their reporting of reproductive health issues. It was grounded on the rhetorical sensitivity theory. A multiple case study was employed for the study. In all, eight respondents were sampled and were categorised into two as cultural respondents and medical respondents. Cultural respondents comprised the Fante ethnic group of the larger Akan group. One respondent each was selected from three Fante traditional communities.
Framing of Opinion Leaders' COVID-19 Stance(s) on society
Authors: Roya Witness
Published: April 2024

Using framing as a springboard and critical discourse analysis as the methodology, this chapter aims to conduct a thoroughgoing exegesis of two speeches that were made by Oppah Muchinguri between the 14th of March 2020 and the 16th of January 2021. This chapter seeks to critically explain the influence of social, political, religious, and cultural factors on opinion leaders' attitude to COVID-19 and show the extent to which they represent perceptions of Zimbabweans regarding the virus and what should be prioritized between privacy of journalists' sources and the public interest. The chapter also adds to the huge corpus of studies on society's conceptualization of COVID-19 and urges stakeholders to avoid unsubstantiated claims and to use their influence to rally behind experts' advice in dealing with the pandemic.
Rethinking the Future of Hydrogen Transport in Pipelines Using an Advanced Liner Material
Authors: Liu Kaimiao , Belarbi Zineb , Dogan Ömer N. , Nakatsuka Matthew A. , Arumugam Ganesh Kumar
Published: April 2024

The aging pipeline infrastructure in the United States raises concerns about potential greenhouse gas leaks, corrosion damage, and catastrophic failures. Many pipelines are 30 to 60 plus years in service with an average age of over 40 years. The three main causes of pipeline gas interruption are material or weld failure, corrosion, and excavation damage. As pipelines age, these risks increase. In addition, there is increased interest in repurposing the existing pipeline networks for hydrogen and hydrogen-methane blends. Refurbishment of existing pipelines to prevent corrosion damage, and subsequent gas leaks and preparation for hydrogen transport will significantly accelerate decarbonization efforts.

Traditional approaches to refurbishing existing pipelines utilize coatings such as fusion bond epoxy or polymer-based liner. These materials provide corrosion protection but are difficult to install on active natural gas networks without significant service interruption. Often sections of pipe need to be removed for offsite repair and refurbishment. In this paper, the authors present a novel smart liner technology that is designed for on-site installation in existing natural gas pipelines. The goal of the liner is to be installed without pipe removal, avoiding major interruptions to gas service.

This paper presents an in-depth investigation into the development of an advanced liner technology with thorough characterization of the various layers of material involved and the performance against corrosion and hydrogen. The liner material, with various topcoats for corrosion prevention, was evaluated using linear polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy under a CO2-saturated 3.5wt% NaCl solution. Corrosion studies demonstrated an advanced nanocomposite omniphobic surface treatment with a corrosion rate of 0.5x10−6mm/year at a thickness of ~20µm. In addition, the omniphobic treated liner showed strong adhesion strength and resistance against folding/bending.

Refurbishment, repair, and transformation of natural gas pipeline networks require new technologies that enable modification with limited interruption to the gas transport at a fraction of the cost of new metal pipelines. The advanced composite liner technology presented here offers a unique solution aimed at overcoming existing installation challenges for corrosion prevention, H2 transport, and leak mitigation.
Observing Deep Water Sediment Plumes Using Mobile and Seabed Deployed Instrumentation
Authors: van Smirren J. , Banks A. , Foster T. , Clarke M. , Marsh L. , Allen K.
Published: April 2024

Sediment plumes are a key issue in assessing the environmental impact of seabed mining. The Metals Company carried out a pilot Nodule Collector test in the NORI-D license area in late 2022. The equipment test was closely monitored in the nearfield from the Allseas test mining vessel and in the far field from a dedicated monitoring vessel. The monitoring program was designed to quantify the concentration of sediment returned to the sea at a mid-water discharge point, as well as the sediment disturbed by the Prototype Collector Vehicle at the seabed. The monitoring efforts were aimed at providing baseline data as well as observing the concentration, movement and settling of the plume. All monitoring efforts were supported by numerical modelling, which was used to inform the best monitoring locations as well as the conditions expected during the testing of the collector vehicle.

Following a comprehensive planning phase, decisions on monitoring methods and equipment and their deployment were described in detailed SOPs for all field work to ensure consistency of all measurements. This included details of instrument configurations and deployment strategies for fixed and mobile monitoring platforms. However, complex field operations are almost impossible to plan down to the minute and a degree of flexibility is required to ensure optimal use of the campaign. The realized monitoring strategy reflected the basic guiding principles detailed in the SOPs adapted to logistical circumstances encountered in the field, This is particularly important to allow comparisons between different types of analyses, including the interpretation of analyses of individual water samples.

In this paper we will present the monitoring strategy and plan developed by DHI in collaboration with The Metals Company. We will also present the different components of the monitoring (mobile assets such as AUV/ROV), fixed stations (mooring lines and landers), water and sediment sampling that were used during the campaign. Recent experiences of tracking and observing plumes with acoustic instrumentation mounted on remotely operated vehicles (ROV), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV), static seabed landers, and oceanographic moorings will be presented.

Specifically, this presentation will discuss:The value of predictive modelling prior to the start of trials, with the objective of monitoring where significant plume was to be expectedHow differences between predictive modelling and real-time observations influenced short-term monitoring strategiesKey challenges related to instrument performance at extreme depths, mobile monitoring platforms, and simultaneous monitoring operations
Addressing the Energy Trilemma: Offshore Drilling Decarbonization
Authors: Falck F.
Published: April 2024

Offshore drilling rigs play a crucial role in global energy production, particularly in the extraction of oil and gas resources. However, the industry's environmental impact has raised concerns about the need for energy efficiency and decarbonization in offshore operations. This paper aims to explore the challenges and opportunities associated with improving energy efficiency and decarbonizing offshore drilling rigs.

The first part of the paper provides an overview of the Energy Trilemma (Sustainability, Security and Equity) followed by an introduction on the importance of data collection and analysis necessary to monitor energy consumption patterns and carbon emissions associated with offshore drilling rigs. It highlights the significant energy requirements for drilling and mobilization activities along with the corresponding greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions contribute to climate change and environmental degradation, necessitating clear actions for reducing carbon footprints.

The paper highlights the economic and environmental benefits associated with energy efficiency and decarbonization efforts. It emphasizes the potential cost savings resulting from reduced energy consumption and the avoidance of carbon-related taxes or penalties. Furthermore, it reviews a 360-degree approach to Offshore Drilling Rig Decarbonization embedding it into operations, operator-contractor engagements, and technical advances. It also emphasizes the positive impact of such initiatives on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting sustainability, and improving the industry's environmental stewardship.

Next, the paper discusses the potential strategies for enhancing energy efficiency on offshore drilling rigs. It examines advancements in optimized rig design, energy efficiency upgrades, energy storage systems and sustainable behavior enhancements. Additionally, it explores the adoption of low-carbon fuels and electrification of offshore rigs. The proven and expected benefits, challenges, and implementation considerations of these strategies are examined.

In conclusion, achieving energy efficiency and decarbonization on offshore drilling rigs is essential for addressing the Energy Trilemma while it is necessary that the drilling contractor and operator work closely together in operating the business in a way that meets economic, social, and environmental needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. By embracing innovative technologies, optimizing operations, and transitioning towards cleaner energy sources, offshore drilling rigs can significantly reduce their carbon footprints while ensuring a sustainable and responsible future for the industry.
A New Innovative Approach for an Independent Protection Layer (IPL) in Offshore Piping Network
Authors: Jandali M. W. , Hajri K. M. , Garcia E. C.
Published: April 2024

This paper details an additional Independent Layer of Protection (IPL) concept and innovative approach which can be applied to both existing unmanned oil offshore Well-Head Platforms (WHP) and new unmanned offshore WHP to be tied-in to existing Pipeline (PL) network. This IPL which can be installed as a second layer of protection between existing Hydraulic Emergency Shut Down (HESD) system and a Safety Integrity Level (SIL) rated High Integrity Protection System (HIPS), will provide protection against over-pressure scenarios in pipelines downstream of unmanned offshore WHP due to Electrical Submersible Pump's (ESP) deadhead pressure. A new IPL approach was developed for the installation of a new 2 out of 3 (2oo3) Pressure Indicator Transmitters (PIT) with a new independent Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) safety logic solver type, for improving adequacy, safety and integrity. This option utilizes power Circuit Breaker (CB) inside Automatic Frequency Drive (AFD) inlet circuit for ESP shutdown purpose. This IPL does not require extensive programming on the PLC, Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and it also optimizes shutdown requirements with minimum cable layouts, conduits, cable trays, fittings, grounding and cable tray supports. Normally, safety within a minimum acceptable risk is the main concern for the transportation of product oil to onshore from unmanned offshore WHP to Tie-in Platform (TP) and then to Gas Oil Separation Plant (GOSP). This approach would overcome challenges for the protection of possible rupture scenarios in topside piping, pipelines, flowlines, and trunk lines due to overpressure from WHP with ESP. Traditionally, only two protection layers are provided, namely, HESD system which is considered as the first layer of protection and a SIL rated HIPS. HESD comprises of electronic transmitter on each flow arm (initiator), Safety PLC (logic solver) for offshore multi-well platform and SSV (Master valve) and export ZV as final elements and the HIPS system is considered as the second layer of protection. However, the risk of scenarios of over-pressures still existed.
How Anti-Agglomerant Can Replace MEG to Mitigate Hydrate Risk in Mature Gas Field?
Authors: Rocoulet Simon , Khiari Rym , Shobaki Hani , Arnault Rudy , Labielle Emerick , Fidel-Dufour Annie , Lesage Nicolas , Drouilly Charlotte
Published: April 2024

In normal operation, a gas condensate field can be operated in pressure and temperature conditions where hydrates are stable. To mitigate the formation and deposition of hydrates, Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG) is injected in the subsea flowline at high concentration (30 to 60% vol. versus water) (Yong Bai, 2019). MEG is then separated from water in the MEG Recovery Unit (MRU) and reinjected in the flowline while the water is discharged to environment or reinjected in the reservoir.

When wells are aging, the water production is increasing and consequently the MEG flow rate. The increase of the liquid holdup (Water + MEG + condensate) in the production lines leads to a pressure buildup and increases the frequency of pigging outages for liquid removal. Therefore, finding a Low Dosage Hydrate Inhibitor (LDHI) could help to lower the volume of liquid (MEG) and consequently decrease the backpressure. (Bhajan Lal, 2020). This type of additive has shown that they can bring significant benefits in terms of additional production, HSE improvements and OPEX savings. (A. Singh; 2006; Orlin Lavallie, 2009)

This study is assessing the feasibility to replace MEG injection in the production lines to prevent hydrates formation by a Low Dosage Hydrate Inhibitor (LDHI), in this study Anti-Agglomerant (AA) because the subcooling is higher than 10°C. AA does not inhibit hydrates formation but prevents their agglomeration in the condensate phase. A viscous slurry, composed of condensate and hydrates will be transported to the surface installation. These last years, chemical suppliers have developed "green" AA to limit environmental impact when discharged to environment. These products efficiency will be evaluated during the study.
Flow Assurance Applied to CO2 Transport: Challenges of Modelling CO2-Rich Systems through Production, Processing and Injection Systems
Authors: Barreto C. V. , Ramos C. S. , Bocchi G. , Trujillo J. , Pasqualette M. , Carneiro J. , Costa F. , Graciano J.
Published: April 2024

High CO2 content fluids present a challenge to the design and operational aspects of production and process facilities due to their particularities related to thermodynamics, hydrodynamic effects, and flow assurance issues. To address these challenges, the present work suggests an integration between different simulation tools to handle the CO2 cycle comprising production, processing, and injection systems. This paper focuses on the modeling challenges imposed by such particular fluids. Traditionally, the state variables adopted for multiphase flow are pressure and temperature, but they usually fail to model phase transitions for pure substances and mixtures with narrow phase envelopes (CO2-rich mixtures). Therefore, to deal with such scenarios, a pressure-enthalpy formulation has been developed so that gas-liquid conditions can be better analyzed. Additionally, to better understand the entire production, processing, and injection system, a parametric analysis has been carried out using the integrated framework. The pressure of the first stage separator (processing section - TOPSIDE) has been varied, leading to an impact on all aspects downstream or upstream of the separator. Results showed that the increase in the first separator pressure decreases the compressor's power requirement per barrel of equivalent oil, but it also decreases the wells production flow rate, worsening the economic performance. In this manner, with the right values, it is possible to achieve optimum oil production while respecting economic and operational constraints.
Bonga FPSO: Corrosion Management in the First Deep Water FPSO in the Gulf of Guinea – A Methodical Approach to Inspections and Fabric Maintenance
Authors: Oluwatayo Moses , Atebe Orobome , Okafor Franklin , Nebo Obumneme , Etuk Ofonmbuk , Nwaonu Stanley , Akanni Joseph , Onukwugha Peter
Published: April 2024

Corrosion failures contribute to high costs for oil and gas assets. This paper discusses the corrosion management approach for Bonga FPSO - the first deep water FPSO in the Gulf of Guinea. The paper details the step-by-step process utilized to control, identify, assess, prioritize, execute, and mitigate corrosion threats. This paper is one of a series of Bonga themed papers proposed for OTC 2024

The bedrock of the approach is the Corrosion Policy for the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO), whose concepts will be described in the paper. The policy describes the objective, scope, responsibilities, and performance indicators for corrosion management. A detailed corrosion risk assessment which identifies all critical components was carried out. The corrosion risk assessment feeds into the corrosion management framework, which houses the asset register, material selection report, inspection plan and fabric maintenance strategy. Continuous improvement studies are done to improve inspection methods and fabric maintenance approaches; some involve the deployment of robots to eliminate human entry in confined spaces like tanks. Furthermore, audits and lessons learned are used to update the corrosion management approach to ensure corrosion policy intent is continuously met.

This structured approach has led to sustained asset integrity, robust corrosion mitigation and top quartile fabric maintenance that has led to the safe operation of the FPSO for circa 18 years, improved asset availability that has led to the attainment of 1 billion barrels of oil production and driven deployment of next generation corrosion and fabric maintenance technologies that has provided the foundation for ongoing life extension of the FPSO for another 15 years.

This paper presents valuable corrosion management insights for an offshore production facility that promotes world-class availability, asset integrity and novel technology deployment.
Optimizing CO2 Transport and Injection for a Large-Scale CCS Demonstration Project in Korea: Flow Assurance in Repurposed Offshore Pipelines and Depleted Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Cho J. , Lee W. , Hwang S. , Tay B. L. , Sun X. , Kim J. , Lee H.
Published: April 2024

This study explores the feasibility of CO2 transportation and injection for Korea's 1st large-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS) project in a depleted gas reservoir in the East Sea, South Korea. In this study, the necessity of heating CO2 at the offshore platform is examined. Operating envelope of the CO2 injector in light of near-wellbore Joule-Thompson (JT) cooling and hydrate formation is also investigated. The study informs the basis of facility design to attain the CO2 injection target.

Transient thermo-hydraulic simulations using OLGA were conducted to establish the safe operating envelope and optimal injection strategy. The study considered re-using the existing flowlines, offshore platforms, and wells. Two development strategies were considered, with or without heating CO2 at the offshore platform. Two reservoir pressures were considered: early life and late life. Hydrate formation risk in flowlines, well and near-wellbore areas were assessed.

This study assesses various methods to mitigate hydrate formation in CO2 injection wells within CCS projects. Each tested concept has distinct advantages and drawbacks, emphasizing the need for optimizing transport and injection systems to minimize energy consumption during steady injection.

The primary discovery indicates that implementing an early injection strategy is crucial for preventing hydrate formation in CO2 injection wells. The study reveals that heating CO2 during the initial injection phase proves ineffective in averting near-wellbore hydrate formation, mainly due to substantial heat dissipation in the subsea flowline. Furthermore, even with heating, fluid temperatures near the sandface drop below freezing, creating favorable conditions for hydrate formation. This approach enhances the economic viability of CCS projects by eliminating the need for costly mitigation methods, rendering them more financially appealing.

This study addresses CO2 injection challenges in highly depleted reservoirs for geologic sequestration. Our systematic approach optimizes transport and injection systems, thereby improving CCS project economics and making depleted fields more attractive for CO2 storage. Our results provide valuable insights into the feasibility of large-scale CCS in depleted oil and gas reservoirs, offering cost-effective hydrate mitigation methods, supporting viable CCS solutions, and contributing to global greenhouse gas reduction efforts.
Deep Sea Minerals – Feasibility of Side-By-Side Offloading in Open Ocean
Authors: Sreenivasan Atheendra , Voogt Arjan , Taha Mohamed
Published: April 2024

Amid the global energy expansion, where diverse energy sources are needed to meet rising demand, minerals like nickel, cobalt, and lithium become imperative for the renewable energy supply chain. While these minerals are almost exclusively mined from land, when utilizing offshore industry expertise, these critical minerals become accessible by deep sea minerals harvesting of the seabed, where vast reserves of such minerals remain untapped. This paper highlights a test of the feasibility of side-by-side mooring for offloading such minerals in the offshore environment. The study employs frequency and time domain simulations to evaluate the operation of a two-vessel system. The setup involves a production vessel with dynamic positioning (DP) and a transport vessel moored side-by-side, connected with mooring lines and fenders. Simulations span various wave heights, periods, and directions. Critical metrics like line tensions, fender loads, and vessel motions are then contrasted against predefined criteria, pinpointing scenarios where the operation could be viable.

The simulations revealed that the primary determinant of operability is line tensions. Factors such as the direction of incident waves, wave period, and the shielding effects from the DP vessel also significantly influence outcomes. Particular care should be taken to manage the drafts of the vessels to prevent thruster impact on the transport vessel, which would elevate line loads. The DP settings of the production vessel should also be tuned to account for the vessel moored alongside.

Additionally, the paper discussed further work needed to establish guidance on the approach and departure of the transport vessel. The maneuvering characteristics of the transport vessel will be pivotal during its approach and departure, especially given the operations' remote open water location and unpredictable tug support availability as a result thereof.
Enhancing FPSO Control Systems: A Dynamic Simulation and Virtual Commissioning Approach
Authors: Badia Jordi , Calzado Sergio Juan , Vega Andrés , Nougués José M
Published: April 2024

In the domain of Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) facilities, the growing complexity of process configuration and control poses challenged in the Integrated Control and Safety Systems (ICSS) development. Traditional testing practices, such as ICSS Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), are supplemented by the use of dynamic simulation for virtual commissioning. This paper explores the integration of a Distributed Control System (DCS) with a process simulator model, as an innovative solution to address common challenges in FPSO design and operation. The synergistic benefits include risk mitigation, optimized control logic, realistic scenario testing, reduced downtime, and validation of control system performance. Virtual commissioning enables early ICSS debugging and verification of operating procedures, and it proves particularly relevant in the offshore oil and gas operations of FPSOs, enhancing safety, efficiency, and operational effectiveness. Two case studies demonstrate the benefits of virtual commissioning in expediting and optimizing startup processes in greenfield project one if FPSO other in comparison the benefits of the first start-up of a chemical process.
Drilling Practices, New Technologies and Well Integrity in Brazilian Pre-Salt Wells: A 15 Year Review and Performance Evolution
Authors: Tomita R. A. , dos Passos A. G. L. G. , de Resende D. L. , de Lima F. M. , Weidlich M. C. , Moreira R. P. M.
Published: April 2024

In the past 18 years, since the first discovery, the evolution of drilling technologies and techniques applied in the development of Petrobras’ fields in Brazilian pre-salt have overcome many challenges, considering well design, drilling performance, wellhead systems, cementing and conductor installation. The improvements in terms of well integrity, as well as construction time and cost, have led to better economical outcome from this area that produces around 80% of the oil from this operator.

In the development of the Brazilian Pre-Salt, Petrobras has drilled over four hundred wells, and this long-lasting campaign and history allowed an extensive development and application of drilling technologies, equipment and techniques. This paper will summarize the historical application of some of these technologies and techniques that have been applied in the development of the Brazilian pre-salt, specifically in Petrobras fields in Santos Basin, to show the challenges involved, solutions applied, and results in terms of well integrity improvements and time reduction. The implementation of these applications permitted a time reduction of 60% on the total drilling duration.
Framework to an FPSO Digital Avatar
Authors: Affonso I. D. , Rodrigues L. T. , Queiroz J. L. , Vieira P. F. , Castelli L. C. , Moreira P. C. , Rocha A. O. , Silva A. C. , Zeilmann R. P.
Published: April 2024

The concept of digital twin has evolved over the years, from a product-oriented approach to an asset-oriented one. However, this shift in scope has also brought challenges and confusion for owners and stakeholders, who may have different expectations and requirements for a digital representation of their physical assets. In this paper, we propose the term 'digital avatar' to describe a digital asset that enhances the capabilities of a real asset, rather than replicating it. The ‘Digital Avatar’ can be seen as a digital extension of the asset, providing additional capabilities and insights that cannot be available in the physical realm.

Based on our experience and ongoing digital products, we constructed a framework to summarize the foundational technologies and concepts behind implementing a ‘digital avatar’ for an Oil and Gas production facility. These technologies have been categorized according to their purpose and laid out on an implementation timeline for greenfield projects. The main products we used as reference to build the Framework are also briefly presented to illustrate how this framework can support design, asset lifecycle management and performance optimization. This framework can help owners and stakeholders to align their objectives and priorities for developing and implementing digital avatars, as well as to evaluate their benefits and limitations.
Bonga Field: A Phased Development to One Billion Barrels
Authors: Olatunji Idris , Aderibigbe Olatubosun , Ogunlana Ayodeji , Gogo Oforiokuma , Umeh Nnaemeka , Bhushan Vikas , Aginah Chike , Chikezie Chima
Published: April 2024

Bonga field is located 120 km offshore and lies in water more than 1,000 meters deep across an area of 60 square kilometers. The hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs are at depths of 6000 – 1000 ftss. The field was discovered in 1993 and came onstream in November 2005 as the first deepwater development project in the Gulf of Guinea It was developed with subsea wells, production manifolds and water injection terminals connected to a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) facility through a series of subsea flowlines and risers.

Over a period of 18 years, the field has achieved a cumulative oil production of over 1.0 billion barrels, 815 Bscf of gas export and 1.5 billion barrels of water injected through a total 39 oil producer and 36 water injector wells.

This performance is grounded in extensive early exploration & appraisal efforts and a continuous revision of the field development plan (FDP) to accommodate new opportunities and optimizations of the existing facilities as more data became available. The field took final investment decision (FID) based on an Estimated Ultimate Recovery (EUR) of 579 MMbbls in 1999. By 2019 the EUR had increased to 1300 MMbbls due to an increased Stock Tank Oil Initially in Place (STOIIP) estimate, better reservoir connectivity than expected and the appraisal of additional hydrocarbon bearing intervals.

Bonga has been developed in phases, with Phase-1 development consisting of 9 oil producers and 7 water injectors targeting five deeper and relatively better-quality reservoirs. Subsequent phases targeted shallower reservoirs and added further infill wells into the deeper reservoirs.

In 2014 the Bonga North-West (BNW) near-field opportunity, identified in the early 2000s through exploration & appraisal drilling, was developed as a subsea tie-back to the Bonga Main hub. BNW added an additional 4 oil producers and 2 water injectors to the well stock and increased the field's daily production by ca. 60 kbopd.

A key enabler of the exceptional value delivery from the Bonga field has been a robust Well, Reservoir and Facility Management Plan integrating a reservoir management strategy (water injection for pressure maintenance and sweep efficiency), surveillance and data acquisition including 4-yearly Ocean Bottom Node (OBN) 4D seismic data acquisition, vigorous well interventions, creative management of limited slots and drilling of infill wells to maximize oil production and ultimate recovery.

This paper provides an overview of the Bonga field development journey to achieving one billion barrels of oil produced, highlighting the key role of exploration & appraisal and continuous update of field development and production strategies, enabled by the application of new data, new understanding, and new technologies.
MPD Deepwater Evolution and Interinstitutional Development
Authors: Fernandes A. A. , Vanni G. S. F , Terra F. S
Published: April 2024

The application of MPD offshore deepwater began on early 2010s. Although the technology is used for over 60 years onshore, the deepwater environment and risk demanded a new approach. Over the last 10+ years there was noticeable evolution of usage of MPD technology and the correlated interinstitutional development among different industries players, such as IADC, IOGP, API, among others. This paper presents key aspects of the evolution of MPD application, and the correlated interinstitutional developments achieved recently. The experience of 100+ wells using MPD on deepwater scenarios, and active participation on the creation of recent relevant international documents and committees provides the authors the opportunity to present key points of the recent industry evolution. Regarding the MPD evolution, a revision of the internal and external operations, through several papers and publications allows the identification of different factors that changed over the years while applying MPD on deepwater scenarios. A description of some of the documents released by several international institutions and impacts on new deepwater MPD projects. This provides an overview of the interinstitutional correlational efforts.

MPD operations are consistently being performed in deep water well construction for +10 years. Some even may advocate it has become commonplace. Current practices widely used today were unthinkable less than 10 years ago. The use of underbalanced fluid, where the hydrostatic pressure of the fluid in the well is below the open formation pore pressure, was one of the initial milestones of the application of the technique deepwater. The DPPT, Dynamic Pore Pressure Test, where a small amount of influx is planned to enter the well permitted the construction of wells with almost inexistent operational window to be drilled on a repeated and reliable basis. The expansion of the use of MPD for well control practices is relatively new but allows safer and quicker actions on the event of an influx. New forms of MPD usage are not limited to drilling operations, with successful results completing and on workover operations. Parallel to the development of the deepwater MPD technique different institutions began the development of new MPD documents. The objective of this ongoing development is to guarantee that the proper analysis and safety on the application of MDP deepwater.

This paper will present the recent evolution of application of the MPD technology on deepwater wells and make a parallel to the interinstitutional development of the industry. The objective of this paper is to provide a clear picture of the true capabilities of the technique deepwater and different industry documents. Giving the reader a broader understanding of the past, present and future directions that the MPD usage can take.