Print this pageIt's Only a Saltwater Spill - What Could Possibly Go Wrong?
CARTY, DAVID J., W. WAYNE CRAWLEY, and WILLIAM F. PRIEBE, K. W.
Although technical sophistication and field practices regarding remediation of E and P sites has improved, saltwater spills continue to perplex environmental managers. Oilfield lore is replete with tales of unsuccessful attempts to remediate saltwater spills.
Whereas most soils naturally biodegrade and even benefit from crude pills, few soils recover from a saltwater spill without appropriate human intervention. Excessive sodium chloride from saltwater spills is very debilitating to oils over both the short term and long term. A synthesis of case studies showing what goes wrong and why is presented, as is a decision-tree approach for getting it right the first time.
The most complicated aspect of remediating saltwater spills pertains to the soil itself. Soil is tremendously variable in physical and chemical parameters. As a result, a salt- remediation technology must be custom selected and fit to each soil and spill circumstance.
Successful remediation also requires attention to cultural factors such as regulations, legal implications, and public relations. Upcoming guidance to assist oilfield staff in correctly assessing spill circumstances, and in formulating and executing an appropriate remediation plan is previewed.
Problems related to soil landscape position, particle size distribution, clay mineralogy, pH, permeability, water table elevation, moisture availability, erodibility, and vegetation will be discussed. Remediation techniques covered will include use of halophytic vegetation, mechanical techniques, and chemical techniques.