bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Downhole Oil/Water Separators: An Emerging Produced Water Disposal Technology
Authors: Veil J. A. , Langhus B. G. , Belieu S. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The largest-volume waste stream associated with oil and gas production is produced water. Treatment and disposal of produced water represent significant costs for operators. A relatively new technology, downhole oil/water separators (DOWS), has been developed to reduce the cost of handling produced water. DOWS are devices that separate oil and gas from produced water at the bottom of the well and reinject some of the produced water into another formation or another horizon within the same formation, while the oil and gas are pumped to the surface. Since much of the produced water is not pumped to the surface, treated, and pumped from the surface back into a deep formation, the cost of handling produced water is greatly reduced. When DOWS are used, additional oil may be recovered as well. DOWS may also be referred to as DHOWS or as dual injection and lifting systems (DIALS). This paper summarizes the findings of a report on the technical, economic, and regulatory feasibility of DOWS technology that was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and prepared by Argonne National Laboratory, CH2M Hill, and the Nebraska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission.1
New Environmental Options for Corrosion Inhibitor Intensifiers
Authors: Brezinski M. M. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Common acid corrosion inhibitors frequently require the addition of intensifiers or contact time extenders when used in very strong acids, high temperatures, or for long contact times. Effective metal intensifiers have the severe disadvantage of being exceedingly toxic to aquatic life as well as humans. Copper salts are lethal to aquatic species at concentrations below lOppm. Antimony salts can also cause heavy metal poisoning when used in the required concentration ranges for inhibitor intensification.
Results are presented showing that a combination of low toxicity intensifiers produces an unexpected synergy and highly effective corrosion inhibitor intensifier system. For example, the use of two common intensifiers can allow contact times of 4 hours to be achieved at 300°F in 28% HC1 on common oil field tubular goods. Intensifier systems will be presented that allow a lower toxicity option to be used in mineral acid systems (e.g., HC1, HC1/HF) on N80/L80 and chrome alloy tubing. These systems can allow an adequate corrosion protection to be achieved that, until recently, was only possible with copper or antimony-based intensifiers. These systems can also be applied at lower temperatures and can significantly reduce corrosion inhibitor concentration requirements.
This development can allow high temperature acidizing to be carried out in areas where the environmental impact of the stimulation fluid is of great concern. The new technology can also cause significant savings in fluid costs by reducing the quantities of the acid corrosion inhibitor (sometimes as great as a 50% reduction). This latter benefit should also translate to better stimulation treatments by reducing both inhibitor incompatibilities with the treatment fluids and producing zones.
Remediation Strategies for Soils Contaminated with Amine-Based Gas Sweetening Wastes
Authors: Sorensen J. A. , Gallagher J. R. , Chollak D. , Harju J. A. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In the past, amine-based waste materials (i.e., reclaimer sludges and filters) generated by the natural gas sweetening process were occasionally disposed of into unlined pits. Such disposal of these waste materials often resulted in contamination of the subsurface soils.
Contaminants of concern associated with gas sweetening wastes include the amines used during the gas sweetening process (most commonly, monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, methyldiethanolamine, and diisopropanolamine), thermal/oxidative reaction products (typically, nitrogenous organic compounds), ammonia, and nonionic surfactants (i.e., nonoxynol and oleyl alcohols) typically used as antifoaming agents. Laboratory and field-based research activities conducted from 1993 to 1999 provided previously unavailable insights regarding the subsurface environmental behavior of gas sweetening wastes. The knowledge gained by those research activities has been applied toward the development of technically and economically feasible remediation strategies for contaminated soils. Based on the results of the research efforts, bioremediation methods such as engineered biopiles and land treatment cells may be the most technically and economically sound means of remediating soils contaminated with amine-based gas sweetening wastes. In 1998, a pilot-scale engineered biopile was built to evaluate the effectiveness of that technology for remediating amine sludge-contaminated soil at a decommissioned gas sweetening facility in Alberta, Canada.
A Risk-Based Screening Method for Evaluating Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons at Upstream Sites
Authors: McMillen S. J. , Magaw R. I. , Deeley G. , Kerr J. M. , Edwards D. A. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Regulators often require that Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) be measured and set TPH clean-up criteria for soils impacted by crude oil. However, the lack of a standardized, scientifically defensible procedure for interpreting TPH has resulted in the establishment of arbitrary criteria ranging from 100 to 20,000 ppm (mg/kg) TPH in soil. In the past, TPH regulations and guidance have not considered a technical approach to addressing risk to human health. Recent efforts by the TPH Criteria Working Group (TPHCWG) have established human-health Risk-Based Screening Levels (RBSLs) for refined petroleum products. RBSLs for crude oils and exploration/ production wastes are being addressed by a joint industry effort through Petroleum Environmental Research Forum Project 97-08. The TPHCWG methodology was modified to include the high molecular weight compounds that are present in many crude oils. As part of the project, 48 crude oils were characterized for aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbon content within equivalent carbon number ranges. Appropriate toxicity, fate, and transport values were determined for compounds greater than carbon number C35. Upon project completion, a risk-based screening method will be available for evaluating TPH at upstream sites. This method can be incorporated into an upstream version of a Risk-Based Corrective Action Plan (RBCA).
A Risk Evaluation of Metals in Crude Oils
Authors: Magaw R. I. , McMillen S. J. , Gala W. R. , Trefry J. H. , Trocine R. P. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
All crude oils contain trace quantities of naturally occurring metals, however, few data have been published on the specific metal content of crude oils. In this study, the metals concentrations in 26 crude oils from North America, South America, the North Sea, the Middle East, and Far East Asia were determined. The crude oils represent both a range of geographical production areas and a range of crude oil types, with the oils having API gravity values ranging from 12° to 46°. The concentrations of 18 metals were determined, and the potential human health risks associated with the metals were evaluated, assuming standard exposure scenarios. The potential for ecological impact was also evaluated by comparing the metal concentrations to ecological soil screening level benchmarks. The results indicate that many metals are present at such low levels that there is no need to consider them as chemicals of concern for purposes of site characterizations and risk assessments at sites where accidental and/or historical crude oil releases have occurred.
Bioavailability of Hydrocarbons in Untreated and Bioremediated Field Soils
Authors: Loehr Raymond C. , Webster Matthew T. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Two soils were bioremediated in a field-scale land treatment unit and bioremediation process performance was assessed with respect to reductions in chemical concentration, relative toxicity and chemical mobility. In addition, a batch rate of release (ROR) procedure was used to determine the rate and extent of release of hydrocarbons from the untreated and bioremediated soils.
For one soil containing aged crude oil (Hilbig),no reductions in hydrocarbon concentrations occurred. However, no toxicity and little chemical mobility were measured in the soil. For a second soil containing a fresh diesel fuel spill (Gideon), land treatment reduced both chemical concentrations and toxicity, and the chemicals in the soil exhibited little potential mobility.
Results of ROR studies were used to verify that the chemicals in the Hilbig soil and those remaining in the treated Gideon soil were not available to be released from the soil. Thus, an environmentally acceptable endpoint had been achieved for the Hilbig soil before treatment and for the Gideon soil after land treatment.
Recent Advances in Surfactant Remediation of Contaminated Soils
Authors: Ooi K. C. , Dwarakanath V. , Holzmer F. J. , Jackson R. E. , Pope G. A. , Weerasooriya V. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Significant advances have occurred in the application of surfactants for the remediation of soils contaminated by a wide variety of oils and chlorinated solvents. Many new laboratory and field data have become available and provide a basis for a better understanding of the use of surfactants and how to design remediation projects. Surfactant selection must be tailored to the specific site conditions and contaminants and satisfy many stringent criteria including regulatory and cost considerations. We illustrate our approach to surfactant selection with an example that required the synthesis and testing of a completely new surfactant for a very viscous oil which was outside the range of experience with surfactants for either enhanced oil recovery or surfactant enhanced aquifer remediation.
Non-Invasive Imaging of Biofilms in Porous Media Using NMR Methods
Authors: Hoskins Brian C. , Majors Paul , Sharma Mukul M. , Georgiou George 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The use of bacteria for the in situ remediation of contaminants is becoming a common practice. To effectively apply such bioremediation techniques we must have a better understanding of how bacteria, present mostly as biofilms, move through a porous medium. No experimental or field data presented to date provide information on the spatial distribution of the biofilm as growth and fluid convection occurs.
A sorted relaxation-resolved NMRI technique is introduced for the non-destructive, quantitative spatial resolution of biofilm in an idealized porous medium. T1 and T2 relaxation NMR imaging data were used to resolve spatial maps of biofilm. Experiments with a transparent, open-flow and glass bead-packed parallel-plate bioreactor, yielded NMR biofilm images comparable to photographs of the bioreactor. Sorting of the relaxation data improves NMRI by using a threshold biofilm relaxation time value from relaxation time histograms. Ranges of relaxation times for biofilm were determined to be between 0.3 and 2.2 seconds for T1, and 0.07 and 0.11 seconds for T2. Our results clearly point to the feasibility of using NMR methods for the in-situ monitoring of bacterial populations in porous media. We also show that T1 and T2 resolved methods will work best for this application.
Modeling the Effects of a Deepwater Leak on Behavior of a Multiphase Production Flowline
Authors: Scott Stuart L. , Lei Liu , Jinghai Yi 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Identification of a leaking flowline represents a special challenge for the many deepwater developments planned in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico (GOM) and around the world. While historically, the number of shallow water releases from pipelines is extremely small, deepwater flowlines operate under conditions rarely encountered in previous development schemes. The remoteness of the deepwater flowline, coupled with a number of complex interactions between the released fluids and the deepwater environment effectively eliminates most external detection methods. Commonly applied internal leak detection methods are also ineffective due to multiphase flow and their dependence on precise metering of both the inlet and outlet flowrates. While multiphase meter technology is emerging for the deepwater market, these devices have rarely been applied in the GOM and may have difficulty providing the required accuracy given the wide range of flow conditions encountered during the life of a well. This paper considers how the presence of a leak would be manifest in the flow behavior of a deepwater production flowline for the annular mist, stratified and slug flow regimes. The models developed require only routine production data, i.e. inlet and outlet pressure and outlet flowrates. Also, various leak locations along the pipe circumference are considered, i.e. top and bottom leaks. The results indicate that a leak can be detected in many instances if special testing and monitoring methods are utilized. In particular, detection is greatly enhanced when flow pattern changes occur downstream from the leak. The case of liquid leaking from the bottom of the pipe in stratified flow may be the most difficult to detect.
Single Step Enzyme Treatment Enhances Production Capacity on Horizontal Wells
Authors: Stanley Frederick O. , Rae Phil , Troncoso Juan C. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
A new technology utilizing a Single Step Specific Enzyme Breaker (SSSEB) process has been applied for the removal of damage caused by drill-in fluid on horizontal wells. This technique has resulted in significant improvements in well performance. Previous SEB (Specific Enzyme Breaker) technology, as it applies to xanthan, starch and carbonate drill-in fluid, focused primarily on a two step process for removal of horizontal well drill-in fluid filter cake damage; an initial SEB treatment for starch or xanthan polymer removal followed by a second treatment of acid for calcium carbonate removal.1,2 This new SSSEB method provides an effective one step system for removing both the starch polymer and calcium carbonate components of drill-in mud filter cake formed during horizontal open hole operations.
Case history information and laboratory data are presented to validate the effectiveness of the SSSEB formulation on the degradation of the filter cake formed when a starch, xanthan and calcium carbonate drill-in fluid is utilized. Previous laboratory and field data have demonstrated the effectiveness of SEB technology for degrading starch polymer. The new SSSEB method utilizes the identical starch specific enzyme product used in previous SEB treatments; however, it also employs a buffered, organic acid fluid. The organic acid reacts with the calcium carbonate portion of the filter cake as the enzyme simultaneously acts on the starch polymer. Compared to conventional high strength mineral acid systems (such as hydrochloric acid) often used for calcium carbonate filter cake removal, the SSSEB acid solution reduces the risk of fluid emulsions, formation acid sensitivity issues, secondary precipitate problems as well as safety and environmental issues. The system is also relatively slow-reacting which is important for the effective placement of the breaker fluid across the entire horizontal interval and allows for uniform filter cake deterioration.
The most noticeable economic benefit resulting from the application of the Single Step Specific Enzyme Breaker system is increased production of hydrocarbons. The SSSEB technique also offers savings on rig and related charges, chemical costs and operational charges by allowing for wells to be placed on production more rapidly and not requiring follow up acid work.
Helical Buckling of Pipe With Connectors
Authors: Mitchell R. F. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The effect of connectors on pipe buckling is acknowledged, but has received little attention. Lubinski analysed the effect of connectors on pipe in tension in a curved borehole, while Paslay and Cernocky extended this analysis to pipe in compression. These papers indicate that bending stresses are greater due to connector stand-off. However, these papers do not consider a buckled pipe.
This paper presents an analytic solution of the beam-column equations in three-dimensions for a helically buckled pipe with connectors. For low axial compression, the solution approximates helically buckled pipe without connectors, however, at higher axial forces, the effects of connectors on contact forces and bending stress becomes significant. Sag between connectors is calculated so that pipe body contact between connectors can be determined.
Applications include the analysis of bottom hole assemblies, drill pipe, casing, and tubing. The solutions are simple formulas that are suitable for hand calculations.
SandPro - A New Application Program for Predicting Onset of Sand Production
Authors: Awal Mohamed R. , Osman El-Sayed A. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
A costly problem encountered in sandstone reservoirs is the production of sand with the produced fluids. We have developed a user-friendly computer program to identify potential sanding locations in the payzone. Various poroelastic and elasto-plastic sand prediction models available in the literature included.
Using Visual Basic™, an interactive windows™ program has been developed. The package is readily usable by field engineers to determine critical flowrate and drawdown without a prior knowledge of the theories of rock failure. The simulator can also be used during planning stages to access the effect of depletion and improved recovery methods (such as water flooding) on sand production.
Rapid Assessment of Development Planning Options for Giant Oil Reservoirs in West Kuwait
Authors: Salam T. A. , Al-Maraghi E. , Jariwala H. , Thawer R. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The West Kuwait development consists of 4 fields, Umm Gudair, Minagish, Abduliyah and Dharif and 5 major producing horizons (Minagish Oolite, Najma, Sargelu, Marrat, Wara, Burgan). Total combined production is currently some 200 mbopd.
A production target of 500 mbopd from West Kuwait fields was established in 1994. This target was planned to be achieved by mid 1999 and sustained for minimum of 5 years. A major field development scheme was adopted requiring the drilling and completion of some 80 new wells, the commissioning of two new gathering centres, a powered water injection plant, an effluent gathering and transfer system, artificial lift and corresponding power systems.
While the conceptual scheme was rapidly adopted, it became apparent that a tool which described and integrated the whole of the West Kuwait production at a very high level from reservoirs through gathering centres to export was required to address the complex range of subsurface, drilling and facilities implementation outcomes.
This paper describes how a system dynamics model was developed to investigate the chokes in the West Kuwait system design and delivery programme. The model was constructed using a standard system dynamics software package. Simple methodologies were used to describe reservoir and well performance; to describe constraints in the surface facilities and export facilities; to develop remedial options to overcome these constraints; and to enable the cost benefit of options to be rapidly calculated.
The model has allowed the impact of subsurface uncertainty on the performance of the surface facilities and export routes to be readily visualised and options to manage this uncertainty to be identified. The model has helped identify bottlenecks in the system design so that these could be rectified. Additionally, the use of the model has allowed the impact of differential slip between the timing of drilling and facilities delivery to be identified and minimised.
Data Warehousing Within Well Engineering
Authors: Singh Raghubir , Albuquerque Harold , Al Hinai Abdul Karim 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In view of the scale of operations within Petroleum Development Oman, there is an ever increasing business requirement for good quality information to support well design and management information. Numerous applications have developed from different sources with sharing of data through numerous interfaces. Access to data was difficult as it was distributed, and the quality unreliable. Frustrated users resorted to developing their own niche applications. The consequence was a portfolio which was expensive to maintain, increasingly difficult to effectively manage, supported by information that was largely inaccessible and of variable quality.
This paper describes the process of establishing a Well Engineering data warehouse, based on the Petrotechnical Open Software Corporation (POSC) industry standard. Applications have been modified to interface directly with this warehouse. Data has been separated from applications enabling easy access to one common source of reliable information. Sharing agreements enforce ownership and ensure information quality. Effective portfolio maintenance is achieved through reduced complexity and number of interfaces between applications.
It has resulted in reduced repetitive checking and modification of the same information in multiple applications, resulting in significant efficiency gains. This has been enabled by a consistent single source of good quality information which is easily accessible. Data has been separated from applications. It further reduces the dependency on a single supplier for Well Engineering tools, as applications and data normally tend to be closely tied together. POSC further enhances possibilities for openly sharing the information between vendor application suites, within organizations, and even beyond.
Fracture Modelling as Part of Integrated Reservoir Characterization
Authors: Heffer K. J. , King P. R. , Jones A. D. W. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Natural fractures play an obvious role in many reservoir performances; in others their influence is more subtle, but yet still significant, especially in secondary or enhanced recovery schemes. It is more often than not the case that incorporation of fractures and small scale faults in a reservoir heterogeneity model will improve the validity and value of that model, and enable reservoir flow simulation and prediction to be on a surer basis. Numerical geomechanical models provide a means of predicting realistic strain fields associated with fracturing, and can incorporate general heterogeneities in mechanical properties, but have degrees of freedom in lateral boundary conditions that cannot be resolved by matching surface contours alone. They are also cumbersome to condition to data available from well. This paper introduces a geostatistical methodology for modelling strains that makes use of spatial covariances in the components of deformation: it provides a simpler, more flexible tool for conditioning strain to well data, in addition to surface data. It can be looked upon as an improved type of curvature analysis, but additionally capturing the 2 shear modes of strain that are neglected by that technique. This paper describes a set of stages for modelling strain that makes use of all the available structural information and taking the results forward to incorporate permeability due to fractures into the overall integrated reservoir characterisation and dynamic fluid flow prediction.