Pond Sealer for Oil & Gas Applications
What is a Pond Sealer?
A pond sealer is a type of pond-drainage device that stops the ingress of surface water into the evaporator and provides air space for vaporization without allowing any liquid to enter. A pond sealer is designed to be installed above a surface water body such as a pond or lake and provide an air space above the water. This airspace is used for boiling off excess condensate from the evaporator to reduce the amounts of dissolved oil in the water. A pond sealer is typically installed at the low point of a lake or pond to allow surface water to drain, reducing the potential for oil emulsion formation. A puddle seal can be used in place of a physical liner. The bentonite clay sealer is a variant of the clay sealer that can be used in a water treatment pond. The bentonite clay sealer can be used on both full and dry ponds. Evaporation ponds with bentonite clay seals have been known to work well in conjunction with oil recovery units. Flowback pits are typically made of concrete and are surrounded by rock and clay lids to contain the flow back (effluent or liquid from the evaporator). The seals in these pits prevent contamination of the soil surrounding the pit from leaching down into it.
Some examples of liners include:
- Freshwater Frac Pit Liner
The Freshwater Frac Pit Liner is a common feature in the fracking industry, where it is used to protect against oil spills and contain water during fracking. It is made of polypropylene plastic and used in place of a liner (such as a polyethylene lining) for frac pits. It contains drilling water, removes solids, and prevents the ground from sinking into the oil well.
- Primary Frac Pit Liners
Hydraulic fracturing involves extracting gas by pumping water, proppants, and chemicals into the ground at high pressure to create tiny fractures in the geologic formations. Hydraulic fracturing is commonly referred to as “fracking.” Frac pits are open reservoirs for the freshwater to settle to the bottom of the frac pit and allow an operator to separate oil and water. These liners are ideal for storing fresh water while transporting it back to a central location.
Directions on How to Apply the Pond Sealer
Site Preparation
The degree inclination of the pit or pond must be less than 45 degrees. A 3:1 slope is recommended (3 feet horizontal: 1 foot vertical). As per the recommendation of the railroad commission and as called for by the TCEQ for soil embarkments for slope stability, the pit should not contain any foreign material such as trash, plastic, brush, and trees.
It is also a requirement that the base walls be back-dragged and compressed to ensure proper footing and stability.
Application
Disking the soil involves removing the top 6-8 inches with a bucket trowel. Then it is smoothed out in a series of passes. This allows you to ensure that the vertical walls are consistent in height. After disking the soil, you should use a uniform spreader to apply puddle seal granules at the rate of 1/2 to 1 pound per 15-25 square feet of disked soil. A smooth drum roller can come in quite handy during the compacting process. Two complete passes with the drum roller or rollers should be made for full compaction. To activate the sealant’s top layer, apply water using a water truck or sprinklers, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Performing a slope stability analysis, residual pore pressures, vapor recovery, and soil classification are left to the user’s discretion. Immediately after application, fill the site with water and direct the water onto tiles and cement to minimize the possibility of erosion.
Hazardous Identifications
The product does not pose any hazard when involved in a fire. However, caution should be observed when it spills out as it is a slippery substance.
Potential Health Effects
- Skin Contact
Irritation and rash may occur on prolonged contact with skin. The substance can also be absorbed through the skin and cause health implications to the body.
- Eye Contact
Irritation and possible damage can occur after exposure to the eyes.
- Inhalation
The mist produced by this product may be corrosive and irritating to the respiratory system.
- Ingestion
The product may also be corrosive to the digestive tract, especially if swallowed. The product may also cause gastrointestinal discomfort and digestive problems such as nausea and vomiting.
- Carcinogenicity
Nothing contained in this material was identified as a carcinogen by IARC, OSHA, or NTP.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How Long Will the Product Last ?
As a point of reference, the longest-standing tank has been used for eight years. It was constructed to be used for agricultural reasons.
- How Long Does the Tank Have to Stay Dry Before it Begins to Break Down?
Depending on the prevailing climate, a puddle seal may stay between 6-12 months before the degradation begins if it is not exposed to moisture.
- What Can Breakdown the Liner System?
The liner has been formulated to resist contact with hydrocarbons and materials common to the drilling process. The only known chemical capable of affecting the liner is an oxidizer with a content of more than 15%.
- What are the Special Considerations in Preparation for the Pit to be Lined?
A slope of less than 45 degrees is recommended, as it will allow the continuous flow of water. The surface of the ground must be level and free from foreign material. A ratio of 3:1 horizontal to vertical is required. i.e., a slope of 3 feet (horizontal): 1 foot (vertical).
- How Will Rocks Affect the Liner?
Rocks will form part of the liner as they bond with the liner itself.