The oil and gas industry in Calgary was introduced to the potential applications of PMAP’s groundbreaking in-situ wastewater treatment and Unmanned Smart Dispensing Vessel (USDV) in a Technology Information Session (TIS) event convened by Petroleum Technology Alliance Canada (PTAC) in Calgary (and On-line) on February 13th. The recording of the presentation delivered by Mohsen Barkh can be watched below.

Mohsen delved into the intricacies of PMAP, highlighting its utilization of cutting-edge technology to revolutionize traditional wastewater treatment methods. Central to PMAP’s innovation is the implementation of an Unmanned Smart Dispensing Vessel (USDV), paired with eco-friendly reagents, for in-situ wastewater treatment. By employing the USDV and advanced reagents, PMAP offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution to oil sand tailings treatment. Notably, its in-situ treatment approach eliminates the need for utility power, significantly reducing operational costs and environmental impact within the oil sand industry. Through continuous monitoring of water in tailings and iterative reagent injections, PMAP ensures precise and efficient treatment, maximizing effectiveness while minimizing costs.

This adaptive learning process underscores PMAP’s commitment to efficiency and sustainability. Furthermore, Mohsen emphasized that PMAP’s innovative approach eliminates the necessity for large-scale treatment facilities, resulting in reduced capital expenditures (CAPEX) for industry stakeholders. Additionally, the utilization of the USDV leads to a remarkable 30% reduction in operating costs, further enhancing its economic viability. In terms of efficacy, PMAP demonstrates impressive results in metal removal, including silica, nickel, copper, and cobalt, while simultaneously reducing arsenic, aluminum, and iron to undetectable levels. The superior performance of PMAP’s reagents not only prevents pH overshoot but also minimizes sludge volume, thereby bolstering Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) scores for oil and gas companies.

In conclusion, the seminar provided invaluable insights into the transformative potential of PMAP in revolutionizing oil and gas industry wastewater treatment practices. With its innovative technology and sustainable approach, PMAP requested the possibility of collaborations with the leading producers in the industry for further adapting PMAP technology towards the contingencies and specific characteristics of wastewaters in the oil and gas industry. PMAP offers a promising solution to the challenges of oil sand tailings treatment, paving the way for a more environmentally friendly and economically viable future in the sector.

The pdf of the presentation can be found further below.

In recent years, wastewater treatment has emerged as a pressing concern for mining companies worldwide. However, a prevailing trend has seen many of these companies adopting an avoidance strategy due to the limited availability of suitable reagents. Among these reagents, lime and its compounds have taken center stage, serving as primary neutralization agents for addressing Acid Rock Drainage (ARD) and acidic water in mining operations.

While lime and sodium hydroxide have proven effective in generating high-pH solutions for acid neutralization, their hazardous nature poses significant challenges. This reliance on potent alkaline substances has resulted in unintended consequences, including a culture of denial, evasion, and avoidance within the mining sector when confronted with the imperative of ARD wastewater treatment.

Consequently, the prevalence of these avoidance tactics has contributed to the establishment of vast water storages, leaving them susceptible to flooding and breach. This, in turn, has led to diminished Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) scores for water stewardship within the industry.

In the following brief paper, we delve deeper into the ramifications of this avoidance strategy and explore potential solutions to address the challenges facing wastewater treatment in the mining sector. Through innovative approaches and a commitment to sustainability, we aim to chart a path towards more responsible water management practices within the mining industry.