Management of H2S in Reservoirs – Biological Effects in Reservoirs Related to Souring

Abstract

Management of H2S in Reservoirs – Biological Effects in Reservoirs Related to Souring

Microbiological growth in oil reservoirs causes significant operational problems, including reservoir souring, plugging and lost or deferred oil production. This JIP has concentrated on understanding how bacteria migrate, attach and grow in reservoir fluids and rocks. Laboratory investigations used a suite of techniques, including micro-models, core-floods, bottle tests and sandpacks to define conditions where bacteria of various types could survive and grow. Some of these laboratory studies have been reported previously (Sanders 1997; Bass, Lappin-Scott and Sanders 1999; and Bass, Lappin-Scott and Sanders 2000). In this phase of the project, the results have been used both to enhance predictive computer models for hydrogen sulphide generation and to develop strategies for treatment regimes involving conventional bactericide application and more novel treatments such as nitrate application.