Chemical, Physical, and Risk Characterization of Natural Gas Storage Produced Waters

Abstract

Natural gas storage produced waters (NGSPWs) are brought to the surface when natural gas is reclaimed from underground storage. These waters may have a variety of constituents of concern that need to be treated before the water can be reused or discharged to receiving aquatic systems. The objective of this study was to characterize NGSPWs to discern potential constituents of concern that may limit surface discharge or beneficial reuse of these waters. We conducted a strategic review of literature, analyses of produced water composition records, and analyses of produced water samples provided by natural gas storage companies. Although NGSPWs varied widely in composition, primary constituents of concern included: chlorides (salinity), metals, metalloids, and organic compounds (e.g. oil and grease). Chlorides are the predominant constituent of concern in most NGSPWs. Strategies for risk mitigation of NGSPWs will need to be both robust and site specific to deal with the diverse composition of these waters.

Review of technologies for oil and gas produced water treatment

“…Because of different toxic chemicals in produced water, few microorganisms can survive. Biological analysis indicates that there are 50-100 cells of microorganisms per mL, in which the majority Table 1 Constituents (mg/L) in natural gas produced waters (pH is presented in standard units) [132]. [134].…”

Advances in Membrane Distillation for Water Desalination and Purification Applications

“…In contrast, the volume of produced water from natural gas activities follows the opposite trend-More water is produced early in the process and gas productivity increases over time. Volume of produced water generated during oil production represents about 70% of the total wastewater and oil volumes produced during oil production, and in many cases is seven to eight times greater by volume than oil produced at any given oil field [320]. Disposal costs of produced water represent as much as 10% of the total cost of hydrocarbon production [126].…”

“…A case has been reported in the northwest of Turkey where about 40 oil and gas production wells generate small amounts of produced water each day. A portion of the produced water discharged via deep injection well for final disposal came back to the surface just after injection into the well; therefore, deep well injection could no longer be a solution for final disposal of produced water at this site [320]. Prior to injection, appropriate pre-treatment of produced water is required due to the presence of high levels of TDS and other constituents in the water [317].…”

Pollution Impact and Alternative Treatment for Produced Water

“…Table 2. Constituents (mg/L) in natural gas produced waters (pH is presented in standard units) [2,20]. …”