Division/Committee: [ENFL: Division of Energy and Fuels]

A plethora of chemicals are utilized in the oil & gas industry for the extraction, refining, and distribution of petroleum and its downstream products. Within the upstream operation stage, chemicals with specific properties of their intended application, such as biocides, corrosion inhibitors, scale inhibitors, wax inhibitors, or surfactants, are used in significant volumes. Yet, their syntheses may be highly inefficient, utilizing energy-intensive and hazardous chemistries. Regulatory bodies increasingly scrutinize some industrial chemicals and face legislative banning due to problematic syntheses that produce unintended by-products or are toxic and persistent in the environment after end-use. Therefore, the industry seeks safer, non-regrettable, alternative chemicals. Still, it is not at the loss of high performance and cost-effectiveness inherent to incumbent chemicals as long they remain legal. Topics may include but are not limited to: Materials that contribute to decarbonization efforts to address Scope 1 & 2 emissions. The development of metrics and analytical tools that support more sustainable approaches for using safer chemistries in the industry. The perspectives for the legal implementation and regulatory compliance of new, greener, alternative chemicals used in the oil & gas industry.

Dr Francisco Lopez-Linares

Staff Scientist, Chevron

Appearances