Oil Field High-Resolution Site Characterization
Oil & Gas High-Resolution Site Characterization
Project Overview:
SCG Remediation Services was engaged by an environmental firm to execute a High-Resolution Site Characterization (HRSC) at remote, abandoned oil well pads. The project aimed to map out and quantify subsurface contaminants to aid in developing a targeted remediation strategy.
Key Challenges:
- Remote and Inaccessible Terrain: The abandoned sites were located in challenging, remote areas, requiring specialized logistical planning and execution.
- Precision in Data Collection: Accurate data collection was crucial for assessing the extent of contamination across multiple well pads.
Technical Execution: Utilizing the Ultraviolet Optical Screening Tool (UVOST), SCG effectively conducted:
- A five-day intensive survey, capturing 28 UVOST points and covering 234 meters, which resulted in 16,407 precise data points.
- Detailed drilling of 21 boreholes accumulating 65 environmental samples for further analysis.
Results:
- Contamination Mapping: The survey identified 25 out of 28 locations showing fluorescence indicative of petroleum hydrocarbons, with distinctions made between lighter-end PAHs and fuel oil range contaminants.
- Depth of Contamination: The UVOST highlighted significant contamination depths between 0-7.5 meters below ground surface.
Outcome: The use of advanced 3D imaging techniques provided a comprehensive view of the contamination and its stratigraphy, allowing for a refined management plan. This strategic insight saved the client considerable costs and provided a clear direction for future remediation efforts.
Conclusion: This initiative underscores SCG Remediation Services’ expertise in deploying advanced site characterization tools under challenging conditions, demonstrating their capability to deliver cost-effective and precise environmental assessments for the oil and gas industry.