Disposal and resource utilization of oil-based drill cuttings in China: A review

As a significant player in the global shale gas extraction industry, China has achieved a leading position in shale gas production on a worldwide scale. However, China is also facing the challenge of managing a considerable number of oil-based drill cuttings (OBDCs), which are classified as hazardous waste. Without appropriate treatment methods, these materials could cause significant environmental contamination. This review describes the distribution of shale gas in China and the characteristics of OBDCs. It also summarizes the main disposal and resource utilization methods that have been studied. Among various treatment methods, advanced technologies have demonstrated excellent treatment efficiency. However, they are costly and challenging to implement on an industrial scale. Currently, co-processing technology is gradually gaining popularity. At least two companies have adopted this technology and have achieved remarkable results. However, corresponding standards have not yet been established, and require further development. The future development prospect for OBDCs treatment is the complete utilization of resources.Implications: This paper reviews the distribution of shale gas and the characteristics of oil-based drill cuttings in China. The current state of development of traditional oil-based drill cuttings treatment technologies. Finally, we focus on the application and development of synergistic disposal technology in the resource utilization of oil-based drill cuttings. It exactly provides new ideas and references for the management of oil-based drill cuttings, and clarifies the tendency of the future.