Abstract |
Potential environmental problems associated with enhanced oil recovery methods (micellar-polymer flooding, polymer flooding, surfactant flooding, hydrocarbon miscible displacement, carbon dioxide miscible displacement, steam displacement (or drive), cyclic steam stimulation, and in-situ combustion (or fireflooding)) are identified. Possible impacts on ambient air quality, groundwater supplies and water quality are assessed qualitatively, and where possible quantitatively, using dispersion modeling and risk estimates. The report examines those potential problems which are unique to enhanced oil recovery as well as post-operational problems such as chemical degradation products. Forecasts of enhanced oil recovery activity are allocated by process and region for use in impact analysis. Research needs are described to evaluate the problem areas. |