Sustainable crude oil recovery: Advancing technology in microbial souring control and microbial enhanced oil recovery

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Microorganisms that naturally inhabit oil reservoirs can contribute negatively or positively to oil and gas industry operations. On the negative side, sulfate-reducing microorganisms that convert sulfate to sulfide contribute to reservoir souring, pipeline corrosion, and detrimental health impacts. On the positive side, the metabolic activities of reservoir-associated microorganisms may contribute to sustainable, enhanced oil recovery. Building on previous findings, the proposed project will focus on advancing (1) the control of souring and (2) MEOR technology with an emphasis on conducting research at high temperature and in the presence of crude oil. In the area of souring control, the contributions of microbial activities to reservoir souring at high or low temperature will be determined. New nitrate and biocide combinations will be examined to alleviate souring, focusing on high temperature fields. In the area of MEOR, various microbial activities will be explored to enhance oil production at high and low temperatures by using commercially-available and inexpensive substrates or biodegradable oil components to promote microbial growth and activity. We will also test the efficacy of existing methods, such as the use of hydrocarbon or solvent application, to enhance oil production at selected oil fields. The outcome of the proposed project will help (1) to mitigate sulfide-induced pipeline corrosion, souring, and detrimental health impacts of sulfide; (2) to extend the production life of conventional oil production; and (3) to improve production water recycling and efficient oil production with minimal environmental impact. These activities will be of high benefit to our industry partners (Enerplus, Yara, and Baker Hughes, a GE Company) by (1) providing a better understanding of the underlying factors driving souring and MEOR, and (2) developing enhanced technologies for preventing souring and recovering fossil energy in a sustainable manner. Further, trainees undertaking this project will contribute to the responsible development of Canada's fossil fuel resources. Overall, the project is of high benefit to the energy industry, the Canadian economy, and the general public who demand safe and reliable energy sources.