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Naturally occurring radioactive materials

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Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) include a wide range of radioactive isotopes that include elements such as carbon 14 and potassium 40, both of which are present in the human body. But the main radioactive elements involved in oil and gas production are those found throughout earth's crust, specifically those present in the formations from which oil and gas are produced. These elements include Uranium and Thorium and their respective daughter products, including Radon gas.

Testing for NORM

The phenomenon of scaling in both downhole and surface production equipment is well known where water-drive reservoirs are production equipment is well known where water-drive reservoirs are in production. Sulfate scales, consisting mainly of barium. strontium, and calcium, occur on surface and downhole equipment. Traces of radium may be present in such scales. making them radioactive. Removal and cleaning of such scaled equipment for later use can present a potential health hazard. Alternatively, the equipment may have to be removed. stored, and disposed of according to established procedures for low-level radioactive waste.

Measurement of radiation levels at the wellsite requires the use of rugged gamma ray survey meters by specially trained personnel. Measurement of low levels of radiation on individual tubing personnel. Measurement of low levels of radiation on individual tubing sections can be difficult in the presence of natural background radiation. However, gamma ray well logging tools are very sensitive instruments and can make radiation measurements inside scaled tubing in the well with less sensitivity to background signal.

To evaluate scale radioactivity before removing the tubing from the well, a reconnaissance logging technique has been developed that uses a gamma ray logging tool calibrated specifically for radium. This new technique allows better decisions to be made prior to removing the tubing.

Regulations

Proper disposal

Noteworthy papers in OnePetro

References

See also