## 10 Potential Issues  
In the process of installing artificial lift systems within the El Trapial sector of the Vaca Muerta, the presence of both corrosion and scaling was detected across disparate well pads (Figure 12). The corrosion phenomena were principally concentrated in the inferior segment of the tubing string and were linked to elevated levels of CO2 partial pressure, as well as the production of acidified water. Analytical verification revealed that the scale deposits predominantly consisted of barium sulfate (BaSO4). Both of these issues pose a significant threat to the structural integrity and operational performance of the well [80,81].  
Fluidic assays demonstrated that the accumulated deposits chiefly contained elements of calcium, barium, and strontium, along with specific concentrations of CO2, water pH levels, and samples of suspended particulates. Notably, heightened levels of BaSO4 and SrSO4 were documented.  
In an effort to counteract the scaling complications, the operations team adhered to customized Scrum methodologies and conducted five two-week sprints. During these periods, they carried out simulations of fluid flow rates across varied tubing dimensions, examined corrosion velocities, developed drawdown tactic models, and scrutinized both the lead times and the cost increments for necessary materials. From a metallurgical perspective, a transition was made to tubing that was composed of chrome alloy as opposed to carbon steel. Financial estimates indicated that the utilization of tubing with a 3%  
Figure 12: Tubing corrosion in the Vaca Muerta formation. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [80]. Copyright 2014, Society of Petroleum Engineers.  
chromium content would necessitate an additional four-month lead time and would incur costs approximately 35% higher than those associated with carbon steel tubing.  
Field trials were initiated using tubulars made of 3% and 13% chromium alloys since 2020. Comprehensive surveillance protocols were implemented, incorporating advanced sensor systems and periodic multi-finger caliper inspections. These measures have been instrumental in formulating a production approach that mitigates corrosion-related failure risks and enhances the reliability of downhole equipment throughout its operational lifespan.  
The scaling problem stems from unique brine chemistries, which contain high concentrations of calcium, barium, and iron [82; 83]. These ions pose a significant risk when they interact with bicarbonate and/or sulfate in the fracturing fluids or produced water, leading to the formation of calcium carbonate and/or barium sulfate scales. Based on North American practice, copolymer and phosphate ester scale inhibitors, which have shown good control over barite scaling in the presence of iron, have also been applied in the Vaca Muerta production systems [84; 85]. [PERSON] et al. emphasize the importance of 'cradle to grave' scale management, which includes the careful selection of fracturing fluids, scale inhibitors, and monitoring practices to optimize chemical programs and mitigate the challenges associated with scaling in Vaca Muerta [86].  
The formation's unconventional oil and gas resources are notable for their potential to increase the supply of affordable and reliable oil, while aiming to reduce global greenhouse-gas intensity. This is particularly relevant as the oil and gas industry faces increasing pressure from societal, policy, and investor stakeholders to shift towards cleaner energy sources and set ambitious net-zero emissions targets. Fortunately, according to the public data, the carbon intensity of oil production from Vaca Muerta is among the lowest globally, standing at 15.8 kg of CO2 per barrel of oil equivalent (BOE), which is well below the global average. This lower carbon intensity means that the increased production and export from Vaca Muerta could contribute to reducing the intensity of global greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with the industry's transition towards more sustainable practices [87].