Frank Ehlen

Innovative ceramic hollow fiber membranes for recycling/reuse of oilfield produced water

AbstractThe focus of this study was on the development and application of ceramic hollow fiber membrane (CHFM) technology for the treatment of oilfield produced water (PW) prior to disposal/discharge into the environment. PW refers to any fossil water that is brought to the surface along with crude oil or natural gas. It is a complex mixture of dispersed oil, dissolved organic compounds, suspended solids, production chemicals, heavy metals, and natural radioactive minerals. PW is difficult to handle/treat and represents the largest volume of waste associated with the oil and gas industry. It can have different potential impacts on offshore or onshore environments depending on where it is discharged. Therefore, the development of effective treatment technologies for PW is essential from both ecological and economic standpoints. The first stage of any treatment process for PW consists of a significant reduction in the level of dispersed hydrocarbons and suspended solids. In a second and often in a third sta...