BACKGROUND
Souring is a common problem in the petroleum industry in reservoirs and in surface processing facilities of oil production operations, under low and high temperature as well as saline or freshwater conditions. Souring results from the growth and activity of sulfate reducing microorganisms, and it must be controlled due to the increased risk to health and safety, deterioration of oil and gas quality, and biocorrosion of pipelines and steel infrastructures. This is commonly achieved through application of biocides. Commonly used biocides have several drawbacks, including environmental concerns from non-target toxicity, and economics of application.
Application of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) in combination with nitrate as a metabolic inhibitor of sulfate reducing microorganisms and as an agent for removal of sulfide has been shown as an effective solution for industrial applications at low or high temperature.
AREAS OF APPLICATION
- To control souring in the petroleum industry in reservoirs and in surface processing facilities of oil production operations.
- To control souring in pulp and paper or other waste-water processing industries.
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES
- Safe to humans at low concentrations.
- More effective at low concentrations compared to other biocides.
- SNP reacts with and removes sulfide without compromising efficacy.
PUBLICATION AND RESOURCES
- Granted US patent: US 11,286,414 B2
- Publication: Fida TT et al. (2018). Synergy of sodium nitroprusside and nitrate in inhibiting the activity of sulfate reducing bacteria in oil-containing bioreactors. Front Microbiol 9(981).
- Researcher profile: Gerrit Voordouw