Oil Production Research Articles

Analysis of the transport of monoethylene glycol inside oil pipelines using numerical simulation and deep learning modeling

One of the challenges faced by oil production systems is the formation of inorganic fouling, which is one of the problems of flow assurance. It is caused by the precipitation and deposition of substances such as barium and strontium sulphate, silicon sediments, calcium carbonate and sulphate, iron, and other insoluble solids, in a single phase or a combination of different minerals. Effective methodologies are being sought to mitigate or prevent the damage caused by this phenomenon, such as injecting inhibitors to prevent the nucleation and growth of fouling crystals. The solvent many of these inhibitors use is monoethylene glycol (C2H6O2), a liquid substance of low toxicity, miscible in polar solvents and relatively non-volatile. For this approach to be effective, it is necessary to understand the behavior of the product used inside the pipe since incorrect injection can accelerate and promote the recurrence of these formations. In order to understand the effectiveness of inhibiting this phenomenon, this paper investigates the behavior of the multiphase, multicomponent flow resulting from the injection of monoethylene glycol into a mixture of oil and formation water in an oil production system pipeline, using computational numerical simulation employing the Ansys Fluent commercial simulator, and applying deep learning models to calculate polynomials that describe the thermodynamic properties of the fluids that make up the flow. Using this methodology, we could predict the distribution of the mass fraction of monoethylene glycol in this system and verify the influence of different injection velocity profiles of this substance on the coefficient of variation of this fraction to predict the uniformity of the resulting mixture between the inhibitor solvent and the formation water. The results made it possible to verify the pipeline sections where there is total, partial, or no inhibition of the formation of inorganic fouling. This study is an essential tool for understanding efficient strategies for controlling and mitigating the occurrence of this flow assurance problem.YUE, Hairong; ZHAO, Yujun, MA, Xinbin, GONG, Jinlong. Ethylene glycol: properties, synthesis, and applications. Chemical Society Reviews, [S. l.], v. 41, n. 11, p. 4089-4380, 7 jun. 2012. DOI 10.1039/c2cs15359a.

Simulation of continuous gas-lift technique in oil-gas systems using OpenFOAM and the Volume of Fluid method

In order to maintain optimal production rates in oil reservoirs, artificial lift methods are employed as reservoir pressure declines over time due to oil extraction. The gas lift technique is one of such methods where a compressed gas, usually a mixture of hydrocarbons with low molecular weight, is injected into the lower section of the pipeline through valves. The expected result is that the additional energy provided will propel the oil to the surface and the mixture of gas and oil will have a lower effective density, thus making it easier to be transported to the surface. This artificial lift method, when applied to restore productivity is not limited by the well depth and can be applied to offshore facilities and allows operation regimes in both continuous or intermittent lift. While computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations for gas lift problems commonly use commercial softwares, we propose CFD simulations using the free toolbox OpenFOAM-10 using the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method. This approach aims to simulate a gas lift scenario where a methane-like gas is injected horizontally into a pipe containing upward-flowing oil, replicating real-world oil industry conditions. The main goal is to investigate the gas lift process, analyzing how the gas propels oil and increases oil production compared to scenarios without gas lift. We focus on the continuous gas lift injection regime and compare VOF simulation results with those obtained from the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method for the same problem.

Absorption and diffusion process at the CO[formula omitted]-decane interface considering density fluctuations near the critical CO[formula omitted] point

The injection of CO2 into geological formations for storage and for efficiency enhancement of oil production is considered a promising technology. Fundamental is an understanding of the absorption and diffusion process at the CO2-decane interface and its pressure and temperature dependence when approaching the critical CO2 point (31 °C, 7.38 MPa).Based on a new conceptual model, which considers CO2 density fluctuations in the critical range, we were able to consistently explain the time dependence of the volume increase for the respective thermodynamic state. The experimental results confirm the new conceptual model that volume swelling in the non-critical pressure range (< 6 MPa) is a surface effect with limited penetration depth. In contrast, the volume increase in the critical pressure range (6 - 8 MPa) is caused by mixing of liquid CO2droplets and the oil phase, i.e. to a level increase of the liquid mixed phase. Our experimental contact angles confirm this. The measured minimum miscible pressures (MMP) are 5.6 and 6.5 MPa at 20 °C and 30 °C, respectively.The CO2 absorption process at the CO2-decane interface is studied independently with pressure decay experiments. Our model results show excellent agreement (relative error ≅ 1 %) with the experimental results for both the non-equilibrium and equilibrium model, and the early-time diffusion coefficient is 4.7±1.9×10−7m2/s, confirming a fast CO2 mass transfer process.

Обоснование метода нормирования уровня нефтяного загрязнения почв на территории объектов добычи и транспортировки нефти в Арктической зоне

The development prospects of the Arctic zone are associated with oil production and transportation. During operation of oil production and transportation facilities emergency oil spills are possible. The monitoring of the soil cover state requires established standards for permissible oil pollution of soils. The study is aimed at developing a method for local regulation of oil pollution of soils on the territory of oil production and transportation facilities located in the Arctic zone. Soil samples were studied in the local area of the Musyurshorskoye field, including oil production and transportation facilities,. The arbitration IR spectroscopic method was used to determine the concentrations of oil and oil products in the soil. The authors have justified the feasibility of using logistic regression for processing the experimental data array. A method has been developed and parameters for local regulation of oil and oil product content in soils on the territory of oil production and transportation facilities in the Arctic zone have been determined. The presented regulation system allows taking into account the background content of organic matter in soils in the studied area of the territory, classifing soils according to the degree of oil pollution, and identifing signs of an environmental emergency.

Oil production and ecological footprint in Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC): the moderating role of institutions

This study explores the effect of oil production (OP) on environmental sustainability in relation to the role of institutions in the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), using annual data from 1990 to 2022. Estimates from the dynamic common correlated effects and dynamic seemingly unrelated regression indicate that oil production heightens the ecological footprint, while this devastating impact is lessened by its interaction with institutional quality. Furthermore, there is evidence that ecological footprint and oil production are causally related to economic growth in both directions. To promote a sustainable environment, oil production activities in OPEC should be incorporated into a strong institutional structure that supports the environment. OPEC should also enhance the proportion of renewable energy in its energy mix through subsidies, tax holidays and carbon pricing.

Natural Gas Liquid Huff ’n’ Puff in Ultratight Shale Reservoirs: An Experimental and Modeling Study

Summary Solvent huff ’n’ puff (HnP) is becoming a common enhanced oil recovery (EOR) practice in unconventional tight and ultratight reservoirs. For an effective HnP operation, achieving miscibility is essential for promoting solvent transport into the reservoir matrix and subsequent oil production. This is typically achieved by either increasing the injection pressure or enriching the solvent. However, injection pressure is constrained by compressor capacity, formation fracture pressure, and lateral/vertical containment. In this study, we experimentally assess the feasibility of using natural gas liquid (NGL) for HnP in an ultratight Eagle Ford (EF) shale sample, providing insights into extreme solvent enrichment scenarios in an HnP process. We hypothesize that NGL extracts oil from an oil-saturated shale core through a counterdiffusion process, primarily governed by first-contact miscibility (FCM) between NGL and oil. In this study, we explore the impact of solvent injection on the phase envelope of both dead oil and live oil during the HnP process. We present a critical comparison between C1 HnP, representing the lower limit of solvent enrichment, and NGL HnP, representing the upper limit, focusing on their respective oil recovery mechanisms and in-situ solvent-oil interactions. Using a high-pressure and high-temperature (HPHT) visualization apparatus, we investigate the interactions between NGL and oil, as well as their compositional variations, under bulk-phase conditions and in the core during the HnP process. We propose an analytical theory for the transport of NGL and oil into and out of an ultratight porous medium, explaining the experimental oil recoveries observed from the shale core. NGL and oil transport is modeled under a diffusion-dominated scenario, with FCM playing a crucial role in enhancing diffusion. Compositional analysis indicates that, contrary to C1, NGL extracts heavier oil components during the soaking stage. Core visualization demonstrates a gradual color change of NGL from clear to amber during soaking, indicating oil production via counterdiffusion. NGL expands the two-phase envelope of the dead oil, making it more volatile, while suppressing the phase envelope of the live oil. This potentially extends the duration of single-phase oil flow during the depletion stage in a live-oil system and enhances the oil production through diffusion. NGL achieves significantly lower FCM pressure (FCMP) with oil compared with C1, C1/C2 (70/30), C2, and separator gas, explaining its higher diffusion into the oil-saturated core. The analytical model demonstrates that NGL diffuses to the end of the core by the end of soaking. NGL recovers significantly more oil than C1 in the HnP process. Most of the oil is produced during soaking due to counterdiffusion, with solution-gas drive contributing additional recovery at later stages of depletion, though not as markedly as in C1 HnP.

Technology Focus: Water Management (December 2024)

Looking back at our industry’s approach to produced water over the past several decades reveals a subtle but persistent transformation. The industry no longer considers the water as only a logistical problem, mostly pushed to the facilities or operations teams. Now, it is a front-and-center component of any life-cycle planning, with multiple pathways addressed by subsurface control, surface treatment technologies, reuse, injection, and safe environmental discharge. This paradigm shift in our industry is a direct result of coming to the realization of its own dependence on having an effective, economic, and sustainable plan for managing the water life cycle. Just in the past several months in the Gulf of Mexico, we have seen the commencement of several high-profile waterflood projects by major regional operators. This comes on the heels of the most recent action taken by the US Environmental Protection Agency to introduce a revised version of its discharge permit for the region. Across the land and in the prolific basins of Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico, regulatory frameworks are evolving to curtail seismicity induced by water injection. In Latin America, major operators continue to evolve with the changing guidelines and environmental regulations, committing to long-term sustainability goals such as a reduction in freshwater withdrawal, recycling and reuse, and efforts to improve discharged-water quality and develop advanced monitoring techniques. In the Middle East, major operators continue to improve water-management practices to maximize the use of this scarce resource for their operations and pursue improved water quality for environmental discharge. The North Sea region continues with water recycling and reuse as the cornerstone of planning and a risk-based approach to environmental discharge. Contrary to the common theme that associates the water problem with the large volumes produced—albeit, in most cases, larger than the oil production—the drivers influencing the planning for the water cycle have much more diversity than just the volumes. For most cases in the past, the simplistic technoeconomic approach was sufficient on its own by merely proposing the best available and economically viable solution. This approach no longer satisfies the broader social and environmental demands affecting the outcome. In fact, today, a concerted socio-technoeconomic group of drivers is dictating our planning for the water life cycle of any project. As the industry continues with the quest for technological innovations for more cost-efficient solutions at the operational level, it must do so with full adherence to evolving regulations and by prioritizing environmental protection. I have selected a few of the most recent papers in support of these megatrends affecting oilfield water management. Paper SPE 221002 provides an example of a decision matrix for an operator to define and design its produced-water-treatment strategy. It also provides a universal and comprehensive review of produced-water-management risks and challenges, not as an end-of-pipe solution but as comprehensive, multidimensional planning that must address technical challenges while maintaining economic viability within the confines of the regulatory framework of the region. Paper SPE 218794 provides a unique window to the application of the Internet of Things, including radio-frequency identification and global-positioning-system sensors for subsurface intelligent completions, and its deployment in deepwater Gulf of Mexico. It describes a real-life example of the deployment of such intelligent completions for zonal isolation as a component of subsurface water-management techniques. Paper SPE 218979 describes the environmental impact of sheening from overboard water discharge as the result of water-soluble organics. It provides a detailed chemical-treatment approach as a strategy in water management for overboard discharge. Recommended additional reading at OnePetro: www.onepetro.org. SPE 218616 Produced Fluid, Water Treatment Plant, and Boiler Feed Water for Steam-Generation Management at Mukhaizna Heavy Oil Field by M. Al-Asimi, Occidental, et al. SPE 219062 Water-Injection Optimization Based on Operational Key Performance Indicators by C.J.A. Furtado, Petrobras, et al.

Повышение надежности автоматической пожарной сигнализации на объектах хранения нефти и нефтепродуктов

The risk of injuries and fatalities, environmental damage, and material loss during a fire at oil and petroleum product storage facilities is very high. Oil and petroleum product warehouses, including a complex of tanks, buildings, and other facilities, that are designed to receive, store, and offload oil and petroleum products can be part of various industrial, transporting, and energy enterprises and companies, etc. This category of production facilities includes: oil depots — enterprises on provision with petroleum products; tank farms and loading units of trunk oil pipelines and petroleum products; commodity and raw material parks of oil fields and oil-refining plants. Hot vapor discharges and oil and petroleum product spills in storage premises, pump stations, and areas for oil product storage can cause fires and explosions. The prompt fire alarm is critical to take immediate action for fire source localization, fire extinguishing, and evacuating personnel. Therefore, the engineering devices that ensure fire safety are the focus of constant attention, particularly fire detectors that register the signs of fire and can also ensure timely fire alarm activation. When choosing fire alarms, however, it is crucial to consider the entire set of their characteristics, including the probability of faultless operation during the longest period.

Innovative Method to Select Optimal Plugging Materials for Preventing Loss Circulation in Deep Fractured Reservoirs Using Machine Learning

Summary Lost circulation, a critical issue in drilling operations caused by drilling fluid loss into formation fractures, is a significant barrier in the exploration and production of oil, natural gas, and geothermal reservoirs. Effective design of the plugging formula to mitigate such losses is vital for the successful extraction of these resources. To efficiently design the plugging formula, in this paper we determine the key performance parameters of plugging materials based on the formation mechanism of the plugging zone, using them as feature input variables. We then use multitask learning (MTL) to establish a high-precision prediction model for the plugging formula, followed by the development of a mathematical optimization model for selecting performance parameters of the plugging formula, with displacement pressure and cumulative loss volume as the objective functions. An improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is used to solve this mathematical model and determine the characteristic parameters of the plugging formula. Based on these parameters, the appropriate types of plugging materials, including bridging materials, fillers, and deformable reinforcement materials, are identified for the formula. The results show that the improved PSO algorithm outperforms the basic PSO algorithm, genetic algorithms, and whale optimization algorithms in solving the mathematical optimization model, with a performance improvement of about 10%. Additionally, sensitivity analysis confirms the model’s robustness, revealing that bridging materials play a critical role in the effectiveness of the plugging formula. As the variety of bridging, filling, and deformable reinforcement materials increases, their displacement pressure improves. More specifically, the analysis explores how the friction coefficient, D90 particle-size distribution, thermostability, compressive strength, and acid solubility of bridging materials affect displacement pressure and cumulative loss volume. Experimental findings validate that the innovative method to select optimal plugging materials for deep fractured reservoirs, leveraging MTL and intelligent optimization, facilitates the swift and effective development of deep fracture plugging strategies. This method not only assures effective fracture plugging but also minimizes material consumption in the formulations, thereby reducing overall material costs. The proposed method provides new novel perspectives and a theoretical foundation for the design of the deep fractured reservoir plugging formula.

Pyrolysis kinetics and reaction mechanism of waste medical masks by sectional heating process

The COVID-19 epidemic has led to a significant upsurge in the accumulation of waste medical masks. This work focuses on the detailed examination of waste medical masks’ pyrolysis kinetic and reaction mechanism, employing a sectional heating process. The degradation properties were analyzed via thermal gravimetric analysis and pyrolysis reactor. The comprehensive kinetic process was studied using model-free and model-fitting methods, which determined the apparent activation energy and pre-exponential factor. The calculated average value for these parameters was 221.32 kJ/mol and 2.6 × 1014 min−1, respectively. The pyrolysis process was carried out at three distinct temperatures: 380, 470, and 490 ℃, corresponding to the initial peak degradation rate and final degradation temperatures determined by TGA results. The total yield of oil, gas and tar was 88.6 %, 11.3 % and 0.1 %, respectively. The identification and quantification of pyrolysis products were achieved through GC–MS and FTIR. It was observed that higher pyrolysis temperature facilitated the generation of alkanes and hydrocarbons with lower carbon chain lengths in oil products and propylene monomers in gas products. The dominant pyrolysis products in oil under 380 ℃, 470 ℃ and 490 ℃ were C20, C20 and C12 with the yield of 36.17 %, 48.96 % and 43.35 %, respectively. And the corresponding dominant products in gas all were propylene with the yield of 34.74 %, 53.02 % and 54.55 %, respectively. Furthermore, a reaction mechanism was postulated to elucidate the pyrolysis process under varying temperature conditions.

Utilizing low-field NMR for comprehensive quality evaluation of edible oil and oil product

Utilizing low-field NMR for comprehensive quality evaluation of edible oil and oil product

A New Method to Simulate and Evaluate Asphaltene Plugging Risk in Oil Wells

Summary Asphaltene is normally present in crude oils. Usually, it is dissolved in the bulk oil phase. However, due to the changes in pressure and temperature, asphaltenes may precipitate in the wellbore during production. It would cause well plugging under certain conditions, which is a severe and common problem for many oil production wells. Asphaltene plugging could lead to the decrease of the well productivity and it requires extra well treatment costs for the removal of the deposits. To prevent asphaltene plugging, it is important to investigate its mechanisms and develop a method to evaluate the asphaltene plugging risk for production wells. A new method is developed in this paper to characterize the phase behavior and to simulate the migration dynamics of asphaltenes in oil wells. Accordingly, a graded asphaltene plugging risk evaluation system is also established, and a case study of a deep oil well in northwest China is performed to validate this method. The simulation results demonstrate a good agreement with the field data. Several prevention and control suggestions are proposed based on field experiences and the analysis of the asphaltene plugging behavior.

Optimizing Batch Scheduling of Multiproduct Pipelines Using a Smooth Modeling Approach

Summary The main method of delivering oil products is by the sequential operation of pipelines. Scheduling oil batches efficiently, considering intricate constraints, is typically a challenging problem that is not readily solvable. The present work developed a systematic approach for the optimization of batch scheduling. The model utilized a continuous-time representation with the objective of minimizing the total costs related to energy and oil mixing loss. The analysis included multiple constraints, including time frame, oil download, flow rate, and fluctuations in pressure caused by friction at various batch interface locations. By applying the penalty function approach, the original model was transformed into an unconstrained model. Smoothing was applied to the noncontinuous variables using the Dirac delta function and the maximum entropy function. A novel nonlinear programming (NLP) model was successfully devised to enhance the efficiency of oil product scheduling. A successive function approximation algorithm was used to solve the model, and the decision variables were modified to decrease the number of model decision variables and enhance the system’s capacity to surpass the local optimum. Subsequently, the model was calculated to address a practical multiproduct pipeline scheduling problem. The model presented in this study identified 74 decision variables, which account for around 1% of the typical mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model. The method presented in this work has the capability to accurately obtain an enhanced solution, making it useful for real applications.

President's Page: Layoff recovery: An unadvertised benefit of SEG membership

Staff reductions, commonly referred to as layoffs, are an unfortunate reality in the energy sector. The dynamics of supply and demand significantly influence oil and gas prices. Decisions made by oil producers, such as those from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), further affect these prices. Natural disasters can disrupt oil production and supply chains, while political instability can also influence availability and pricing. Additionally, economic fluctuations play a crucial role in the rise and fall of this commodity's cost. Mergers often lead to overlapping positions that become redundant. While these factors are largely beyond our control, they remind us that working in this rewarding yet unpredictable industry comes with its challenges, which we can mitigate by preparing for such occurrences.

Genome-wide investigation of family‑1 UDP glycosyltransferases reveals the Fusarium resistance role of VfUGT90A2 in tung trees

UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) play vital roles in pathogen resistance through secondary metabolites, such as flavonoid. Vernicia fordii (tung trees) is well known for its production of industrial oil, which has been decimated by the soil-borne fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Fordiis (Fof-1). The current understanding of the metabolic and molecular mechanism of V. fordii against Fof-1 is limited. Through genome-wide analysis identified 153 VfUGTs, which were divided into 16 clusters derived from tandem and segmental repeat events. Variations in gene structure and cis-elements have contributed to gene differentiation within the various subfamilies of VfUGTs. VfUGT90A2 was found to be highly induced and expressed, serving as a key gene during the response process to Fof-1 infection in tree roots. The study showed that transgenic hairy roots of the tung trees, overexpressing VfUGT90A2, displayed significantly enhanced resistance to Fof-1. Additionally, the root extract from these transgenic roots was found to have a notable inhibitory effect on the growth of Fof-1 mycelium. Metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses further revealed an increase in flavonoids, such as quercitrin and myricitrin, in the transgenic hairy roots overexpressing VfUGT90A2. Meanwhile, VfUGT90A2 was speculated bound well to quercetin by protein docking predictions. The enzyme activity assay in vitro further verified that VfUGT90A2 catalyzed the glycosylation of quercetin. In all, our data shows that VfUGT90A2 is involved in the flavonoid biosynthetic pathways and has an impact on enhancing the resistance of plant to Fusarium, therefore, offers an opportunity to explore an effective strategy for Fusarium resistant plant breeding.

Elucidating the potential of non-edible milkweed seed oil for biodiesel production using green pod-derived nano-catalysts

Elucidating the potential of non-edible milkweed seed oil for biodiesel production using green pod-derived nano-catalysts

Physiological parameters and metal-accumulating capacity of the biofuel plant Miscanthus × giganteus cultivated on oil-contaminated podzol soil treated with humic preparations

Background. Physiological characteristics of the biofuel plant Miscanthus × giganteus J. M. Greef, Deuter ex Hodk. &amp; Renvoize are currently attracting much attention due to its phytoremediation potential. The aim of this work was to study the content of photosynthetic pigments in the leaves of M. giganteus, the accumulation of metals in the rhizosphere and aboveground organs, as well as the morphological parameters of plants cultivated on oil-contaminated soil and exposed to treatment with humic preparations. Materials and Methods. During field experiments, five experimental plots (PC and P1–P4) with an area of 1 m2 were laid out on podzol soil in the territory adjacent to the Starosambirske oil field. The PC plot was not subjected to any experimental treatment. The soil in plot P1 was planted with M. giganteus rhizomes; the soils in plots P2–P4 were contaminated with 10 L/m2 of crude oil and then planted with M. giganteus rhizomes. Before planting the rhizomes on plots P3 and P4, these were soaked in solutions of Fulvital® Plus Liquid and Humifield® Forte, respectively. During the growth period, the plants were sprayed twice with humic preparations. Shoot height and leaf width, a- and b-type chlorophyll (Chla and Chlb, respectively), total chlorophyll (Chla+b) and carotenoid concentrations were measured using standard methods. The content of metals (Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) in soil and plant samples was assessed by X-ray fluorescence analysis using an Elvax Light SDD Analyzer. Results. The cultivation of M. giganteus on oil-contaminated soil did not affect shoot height or leaf width of plants, but it reduced the content of Chla, Chlb, Chla+b and carote­noids in plant leaves. Treatment of plants with humic preparations led to an increase in pigment concentrations in the leaves at different growth periods. Oil-contaminated soil planted with M. giganteus showed elevated levels of Cr and Ni. The cultivation of M. giganteus treated with Fulvital® Plus Liquid resulted in increased Ca, Mn and Ni contents in rhizosphere soil of an oil-contaminated plot. Growing M. giganteus on oil-contaminated soil resulted in significant decreases in Ca, Cr, Fe, K, Mg, Ni and Zn concentrations in plant stems. Treatment with humic preparations increased the content of the mentioned metals in the stems and the concentration of Mg and Ni in the leaves of plants from oil-contaminated soil compared to those in untreated plants. According to the bioaccumulation factor (BF) values, M. giganteus leaves have a high accumulation potential for Ni and Ca (BF&gt;1), a medium accumulation potential for Mg, K and Cr (BF from 0.1 to 0.32) and a low accumulation potential for Fe and Zn (BF&lt;0.1). The BF values of metals in leaves and stems decreased when plants were grown on oil-contaminated soil. Conclusions. Humic preparation treatment has a positive effect on the physiological parameters of M. giganteus grown on oil-contaminated podzol soil. The ability of M. giganteus to extract Ni from soil may mediate the plant’s phytoremediation potential. In this regard, the cultivation of M. giganteus in combination with its treatment with humic preparations will be promising on lands contaminated with oil and petroleum products.

Industry Image Perceptions and Organizational Attractiveness: Results of an International Survey

ABSTRACTExtending the research on corporate brand image and recruitment, this study investigates the influence of industry image on organizational attractiveness in a cross–national context. Drawing from signaling theory and the application of the instrumental‐symbolic image framework, we apply an experimental vignette design in the renewable energy industry (REI) and the oil and gas exploration and production industry (OGI) with potential job applicants in France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. We conceptualize national context as collective signaling environments. Results from 550 respondents indicate that the REI and OGI differ in most of the instrumental and symbolic image dimensions. The instrumental image dimension of pay and the three symbolic image dimensions of sincerity, innovativeness, and prestige predict organizational attractiveness. Moreover, sincerity, innovativeness, and prestige carry a mediating effect in the link between industry affiliation and organizational attractiveness. Findings also demonstrate that image perceptions of the REI and OGI vary across countries such that the already more favorable image perceptions regarding the REI are for the most part even more pronounced in France. Implications for theory and tailored recommendations for practice are provided.

Identification of Security Scenarios in offshore Oil&Gas production facilities based on past incident analysis

Offshore Oil&Gas installations may be attractive targets of intentional attacks due to their presence in socio-political sensitive areas, their economic significance, and the high impact of scenarios that can be triggered by the mismanagement of the hazardous substances handled (e.g., crude oil, natural gas, etc.). In the present study, a new dataset including 112 past security-related incidents that affected the offshore Oil&Gas sector in the last decades was developed and analyzed using Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA), Root Cause Analysis (RCA), and Attack Tree Analysis (ATA). Significant differences were found in the types of threats and attack modes, with terrorism identified as the primary threat, followed by robbery and kidnapping. The identified scenarios caused fatalities, injuries, and asset damages at the targeted facilities, underscoring their potential to cause severe impacts, comparable to the outcomes of safety-related accidents. Tables linking identified attack modes, scenarios, and consequences specific contribution to the SVA workflow proposed by the API Recommended Practices 70 and 70I were obtained. Overall, the results obtained support the application of suitable Security Vulnerability/Risk Assessment (SVA/SRA) methodologies concerning the identification and characterization of adversaries, the definition of attack modes, the evaluation of effectiveness of existing security barriers, and the assessment of consequences.

GIS-based modeling of the environmental vulnerability of the Amazon region to the upstream oil and gas activities

ABSTRACT To improve the security of investors in the petroleum industry and to bestow transparency and reliability to its licensing process, the Brazilian Government has recently implemented a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) to evaluate the potential environmental effects of oil and gas exploration and production activities before the concession of areas. To provide robustness to SEA’s analysis stage, this paper aims to propose an innovative methodological approach to map the environmental vulnerability of the area under study, considering selected environmental receptors. This approach combines two techniques, one analytical and the other spatial: environmental risk analysis and spatial analysis. To better illustrate it, this paper presents a case study of the Solimões Sedimentary Basin. Findings show that the approach was able to indicate the more suitable areas inside the SEA region for the development of the O&G upstream activities, as well as to map the vulnerability of each analyzed environmental receptor, to the complete chain of activities, from the exploration for resources until the decommissioning of facilities. This hybrid technique proved to be suitable to the levels of detail required by SEAs and may allow the Government’s goals with it to be achievable, including the environmental issues earlier, in its sectorial PPPs.