Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 3, 2025
08:57
VacuSIP, an Improved InEx Method for In Situ Measurement of Particulate and Dissolved Compounds Processed by Active Suspension Feeders
Published on: August 3, 2016
11.1K
Offshore Online Measurements of Total Suspended Solids Using Microscopy Analyzers
Dennis Severin Hansen1, Stefan Jespersen1, Mads Valentin Bram1
1Department of Energy Technology, Aalborg University, Niels Bohrs Vej 8, 6700 Esbjerg, Denmark.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 2, 2021
Summary
Two online microscopy analyzers accurately measured particle sizes and oil-in-water concentrations for produced water re-injection. These advanced water quality measurements are crucial for the oil and gas industry to maintain operational performance and environmental protection.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Petroleum Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Online water quality monitoring is vital in the oil and gas industry for operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.
- Re-injecting produced water extends reservoir life but requires high, consistent quality to prevent injectivity issues.
- Accurate particle size and oil-in-water concentration data are essential for managing produced water for re-injection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the performance of two online microscopy analyzers for water quality assessment.
- To validate calibration procedures for both steady-state and real-time measurements.
- To compare microscopy-based measurements with a fluorescence-based monitor for oil-in-water concentration.
Main Methods:
- Utilized high-resolution video microscopy to capture particle images in a flow cell.
- Developed and validated calibration procedures for steady-state and real-time analysis.
- Applied post-processing with a trailing moving average for real-time data interpretation.
- Compared oil-in-water concentration measurements against a fluorescence-based online monitor.
- Addressed statistical considerations for particle size distribution accuracy and confidence intervals.
Main Results:
- Both online microscopy analyzers demonstrated promising accuracy in measuring known particle sizes.
- The analyzers effectively measured oil-in-water concentrations under both steady-state and real-time conditions.
- Real-time measurements were achieved through data post-processing and moving average application.
- Performance comparison indicated reliable results for the microscopy techniques.
Conclusions:
- Online microscopy analyzers offer a viable solution for accurate water quality monitoring in the oil and gas sector.
- Validated calibration and real-time data processing enable effective assessment of produced water quality.
- These technologies support the goal of safe and efficient produced water re-injection, enhancing operational and environmental outcomes.
