Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Introduction to Oilfield Microbiology

• Understand the role of microbes in oil and gas operations.
• Identify key microbial species affecting oilfield operations:
• Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria (SRB) – Cause souring and MIC.
• Acid-Producing Bacteria (APB) – Cause acid corrosion.
• Slime-Forming Bacteria – Contribute to biofouling.
• Methanogens – Impact production chemistry and gas composition.
• Recognize the impact of microbes on oilfield processes, including pipeline integrity, reservoir souring, and water treatment.

2. Targeting Microbial Contaminants in Oilfield Environments

• Identify microbial threats in different oilfield systems:
• Production wells and reservoirs.
• Water injection and disposal systems.
• Storage tanks and pipeline networks.
• Offshore and subsea operations.
• Assess environmental conditions favoring microbial growth (temperature, salinity, pH, and nutrient availability).

3. Testing and Monitoring for Oilfield Microbial Contamination

• Learn oilfield microbiology sampling techniques:
• Produced water and injection water sampling.
• Biofilm analysis from pipelines and equipment.
• Corrosion coupon and pigging debris evaluation.
• Apply microbiological testing methods:
• Most Probable Number (MPN) analysis.
• ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) bioluminescence testing.
• DNA-based molecular techniques (qPCR, Next-Gen Sequencing).
• Culture-based microbial identification.

4. Treatment and Control Strategies for Oilfield Microbial Management

• Implement chemical treatment strategies:
• Biocide selection and dosing (glutaraldehyde, THPS, quaternary amines, peracetic acid).
• Continuous vs. batch treatment strategies.
• Understand mechanical control methods:
• Filtration and hydrocyclones.
• Pigging and chemical cleaning of pipelines.
• Apply biological and environmentally friendly treatment approaches:
• Competitive exclusion techniques.
• Natural microbial inhibitors and green biocides.

5. Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) and Pipeline Integrity

• Recognize mechanisms of MIC and its impact on oilfield infrastructure.
• Learn early detection techniques for MIC.
• Develop corrosion mitigation and monitoring programs.

6. Reservoir Souring Prevention and Remediation

• Understand how microbial activity leads to hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) production.
• Implement nitrate treatment to prevent SRB growth.
• Evaluate biocide applications for downhole and surface treatment.

7. Oilfield Water Treatment and Microbial Control in Injection Systems

• Optimize water treatment for microbial control in produced and injection water.
• Apply chlorination, UV treatment, and filtration for microbial reduction.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with water discharge and injection standards.

8. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world incidents of microbial contamination and treatment outcomes.
• Participate in hands-on microbial sampling and testing exercises.
• Develop a site-specific microbial management plan for oilfield operations.

Target Audience

• Oilfield microbiologists and production chemists
• Reservoir engineers and production engineers
• Pipeline and facility integrity specialists
• HSE and compliance officers
• Water treatment and injection system operators