Unconventional High Temperature Nanofiltration for Produced Water Treatment

The recovery of known reserves of oil and natural gas in the United States, especially from unconventional sources, is often limited by the economic and environmental impacts of the water that is co-produced during the extraction process. Innovative and cost-effective produced water treatment methods are needed to improve the economic viability of unconventional reserves, particularly for the removal of salinity and organic contaminants. Treatment methods must minimize waste streams and be capable of producing a water quality that meets regulatory standards for surface discharge and beneficial uses. This project will develop a nanofiltration membrane technology for removing salinity and mineral content from produced water that is capable of operating up to 180°C; has high stability to oxidizers, metals, and organics; is resistant to abrasive or suspended materials; and is compatible with steam or solvent cleaning. This technology is expected to decrease pretreatment requirements, increase membrane lifetime, and reduce waste brine/sludge volume relative to available conventional practices. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The largest growing source of produced water originates from development of unconventional gas resources, particularly coal-bed methane. More economical treatment methods would increase gas yields and provide a freshwater resource for beneficial uses while reducing environmental impacts. A spin-off application would involve the treatment of geothermal brine, which would help enable the future development of geothermal energy resources