Oil and gas companies are finding that microbial enhanced oil recovery will help them produce more crude oil

 

Microbial enhanced oil recovery is an energy-efficient, cost-effective, and ecological biotechnology method, based on biotechnology concepts and engineering research, which involve the use of microorganisms for the purpose of enhanced oil recovery. The ultimate objective of MEOR is to enhance the recoverability of oil trapped in permeable media by increasing the productivity of existing oil wells while also improving economic well-being. MEOR is intended for those who are looking to build sustainable communities within short and medium terms.

MEOR focuses on the three areas of site evaluation, which is the first step towards sustainable oil extraction; site study, which is critical to determining what types of habitats and organisms will best suit each site; and research and investigation, which is carried out to establish the impact of the project and to obtain scientific data that can inform the further analysis. Microbial enhanced oil recovery relies on the study of selected microorganisms living in the oil stratum. These microorganisms can be grouped into three major categories according to their importance for the extractive process. First, there are bacteria and fungi that are known to be important sources of energy. Recently, in March 2018, Hunting plc collaborated with Titan Oil Recovery Inc. to add organic oil recovery to its product portfolio.

Site evaluation determines the most efficient sites for the development of energy infrastructure, pipes, and processing lines. Site selection is based on geology, soil and topography, and existing customer demands. Site development includes determining the number and size of potential energy output areas and corresponding transportation and storage arrangements. Several approaches can be adopted to increase the number of suitable microorganisms. The most popular strategy adopted in the development of high-quality strains that are capable of producing high quantities of energy from a small number of primary microorganisms. Storing microorganisms will allow a continuous source of energy for future applications. Some stocks should be periodic, while others should be daily stock. Microorganisms should be kept in delicate conditions with optimal temperature and pH.