2000 04 19
Bioremediation of Produced Sand from Heavy Oil Operations - Research Project

UNOTEC-Unique Oilfield Technology Services and Wascana Energy Inc., in collaboration with Olds College Composting Technology Centre (CTC), invite you to a Technology Information Session detailing laboratory and field research data on an innovative on-site biotreatment and land application process used to detoxify hydrocarbon contaminated drilling waste and soils. Please accept this letter as an invitation for your company to get involved in an upcoming research project on the bioremediation of produced sand from heavy oil operations.  

Background
Apart from washing and incineration, few low-energy, solvent-free or cost-effective options exist for the disposal of produced sand material; a fact that is causing growing concerns among producers.  For this reason, UNOTEC has decided to collaborate with Olds College Composting Technology Centre (CTC), on a research project to answer the question, "Can bioremediation offer a viable and economical solution for the treatment of produced sand?"

For this study, produced oil sand material will be prepared for bioremediation using UNOTEC's patent-pending biotreatment process.  A finely calibrated mixing unit will be used to evenly blend the sandy material with oilseed meal and wood shavings at pre-determined ratios.  To determine the most efficient and cost effective approach to bioremediation, half of the mixture will be piled and actively composted.  The other half will be spread in thin layers on field plots at the Olds College.  Among other parameters, hydrocarbon reduction rates will be monitored at regular intervals during active biodegradation and grow-out testing will be conducted when biological endpoints are reached.

Project Costs
In order for this project to proceed, we are seeking contributions and financial support from oil and gas producers, research firms, and governmental agencies interested in funding this project.  So far, two truck loads of sand material have been donated by AEC and Wascana Energy.  Although this meets our minimum requirement, delivery of additional material would be appreciated.  Currently, CTC is in the process of preparing a formal proposal and budget for the project that will be circulated to interested parties for review.  If you would like a copy of the proposal or would like to make a contribution, please contact Ari Laurell of Unotec, phone (403) 205-3443 ext.25 or email Dr. Donna Chaw at CTC at dchaw@admin.oldscollege.ab.ca 

As we are eager to initiate this project, please feel free to forward this letter to other individuals in your company for consideration.

PTAC makes no representation regarding ownership or quality of the subject technology.