Showing papers on "Brine published in 1992"

Seismic properties of pore fluids

Abstract: Pore fluids strongly influence the seismic properties of rocks. The densities, bulk moduli, velocities, and viscosities of common pore fluids are usually oversimplified in geophysics. We use a combination of thermodynamic relationships, empirical trends, and new and published data to examine the effects of pressure, temperature, and composition on these important seismic properties of hydrocarbon gases and oils and of brines. Estimates of in-situ conditions and pore fluid composition yield more accurate values of these fluid properties than are typically assumed. Simplified expressions are developed to facilitate the use of realistic fluid properties in rock models. Pore fluids have properties that vary substantially, but systematically, with composition, pressure, and temperature. Gas and oil density and modulus, as well as oil viscosity, increase with molecular weight and pressure, and decrease with temperature. Gas viscosity has a similar behavior, except at higher temperatures and lower pressures, where the viscosity will increase slightly with increasing temperature. Large amounts of gas can go into solution in lighter oils and substantially lower the modulus and viscosity. Brine modulus, density, and viscosities increase with increasing salt content and pressure. Brine is peculiar because the modulus reaches a maximum at a temperature from 40 to 80°C. Far less gas can be absorbed by brines than by light oils. As a result, gas in solution in oils can drive their modulus so far below that of brines that seismic reflection bright spots may develop from the interface between oil saturated and brine saturated rocks.

Segregation of ore metals between magmatic brine and vapor; a fluid inclusion study using PIXE microanalysis

Abstract: Nondestructive proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) analysis is used to measure the concentrations of base metals and other heavy elements in single hypersaline brine inclusions and low-salinity vapor inclusions, which are intimately associated within a granite-hosted quartz-cassiterite vein in the Mole Granite (New South Wales, eastern Australia). Microther-mometric measurements and Raman microspectrometry on the same inclusions complement the data.The brine inclusions have an estimated composition (in wt %): NaCl, 20; KCl, 7; CaCl 2 , 0.9; MnCl 2 , 4; FeCl 2 , 14; ZnCl 2 , 1; plus (in ppm by weight) Co, 300; Cu, 900; As, 500; Br, 400; Rb, 1,700; Sn, approximately 400; Cs, 2,000; Pb, 3,000. Cation ratios in this brine compared with trace element concentrations in the source granite closely match experimental data on equilibrium metal distribution between chloride-bearing aqueous fluid and silicate melts, confirming that the brine inclusions represent near-pristine samples of magmatic fluid.Low-salinity vapor inclusions occurring in the same sample are interpreted on the basis of phase equilibria to have coexisted with the magmatic brine at 500 degrees to 600 degrees C and 500 to 800 bars, prior to some cooling and decompression to trapping conditions of 380 degrees to 450 degrees C and approximately 300 bars. Compared with the brine inclusions, they contain higher concentrations of CO 2 and S (of unknown speciation) and about 1 percent Cu as the most abundant cation detected by PIXE analysis. Concentration ratios of copper to all other first-row transition metals (e.g., Cu/Fe, Cu/Zn, and also Cu/Pb) are more than two orders of magnitude higher in the vapor than in the brine inclusions.The fluid inclusion results indicate that partitioning of base and precious metals between magmatic vapor and hypersaline brine may be substantial and highly element specific, probably as a result of contrasting metal complexing in the two fluid phases. Volatile sulfur complexes of copper could explain preferential partitioning of copper (and by inference, of gold) into the magmatic vapor phase, whereas chloride complexing causes most other heavy metals to partition into the coexisting brine. The analytical data emphasize the importance of magmatic vapor and vapor condensate as ore-forming solutions and suggest that brine-vapor separation may be an important mechanism of base and precious metal segregation in high-temperature hydrothermal systems. This possibility has not received much attention so far, but could be a significant factor in the formation of porphyry-style and other magmatic hydrothermal base and precious metal deposits.

Static and dynamic properties of a network of wormlike surfactant micelles (cetylpyridinium chlorate in sodium chlorate brine)

Abstract: The structure of solutions of cetylpyridinium chlorate micelles is studied by light scatterAg and found to be analogous to that of polymer solutions in good solvent and in the semi dilute range. In contrast the micellar solutions are found here to be very fluid and their measured rheological properties are strikingly different from that of polymer solutions. These rheological properties are not accounted for by the recently developed model for semi dilute solutions of equilibrium polymers which described well the properties of other similar wormlike micellar systems. We suggest that the existence of crosslinks rather than entanglement points in the network of wormlike micelles could be responsible for these unexpected properties.

Method of recovering energy from reverse osmosis waste streams

Abstract: Hydraulic energy is recovered from the waste brine through a control device, having a central rotatable spool piece controlling fluid flow paths therethrough. The control device, in turn, directs the brine stream of reverse osmosis systems by diverting the brine into work exchangers used to pressurize the feed liquor. All components are made of corrosion resistant materials suitable for use in brine environments. Membrane pressure is held stable by equalization lines within the control device. System capacity can be adjusted externally by changing control dwell time.

Process for producing sodium salts from brines of sodium ores

Abstract: A process is described for producing sodium-based chemicals from a brine containing sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate by heating the brine to evaporate water and drive off carbon dioxide and obtain a solution that will crystallize sodium sesquicarbonate, cooling the solution, precipitating sodium sesquicarbonate crystals and separating a first mother liquor from the sesquicarbonate crystals. The first mother liquor is then cooled to a lower temperature to precipitate sodium carbonate decahydrate crystals, the decahydrate crystals are separated from a second mother liquor and the decahydrate crystals are recovered for use in the manufacture of sodium-containing chemicals, such as sodium carbonate monohydrate, anhydrous sodium carbonate or soda ash.

Slurried polymer foam system and method for the use thereof

Abstract: This invention record describes a method for fracturing subterranean formations utilizing a foam comprising a water-based fracturing fluid comprised of water or brine or water and brine or brine and alcohol and a polymer slurry in diesel oil. Preferably, the polymer is comprised of a guar polymer and diesel oil in equal amounts. The foamer component preferably is comprised of cocobetaine, a solvent, an alpha-olefin sulfonate and water. The energizing phase component is comprised of carbon dioxide, nitrogen or a mixture of carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

Bromide separation and concentration using semipermeable membranes

Abstract: Aqueous solutions containing bromide and one or more polyvalent anions are separated by nanofiltration into two streams, a brine enriched in the bromide and a brine enriched in the polyvalent anion. The bromide-enriched brine can be concentrated using reverse osmosis, and the concentrated brine can be used, e.g., as feed to a process for recovering elemental bromine or for the production of metal bromide salt.

A dual-temperature vehicular absorption refrigeration system

Abstract: An ammonia absorption refrigeration system includes a generator vessel (G) in a casing (M) through which engine exhaust gas flows in heat exchange relation with the generator vessel, ammonia/water refrigerant solution being contained in the generator to be vaporized therein by the heat from the exhaust gas, a condenser (C) through which vaporized refrigerant flows from the generator, at least one evaporator (U, V) through which refrigerant flows from the condenser, and at least one absorber (W, Y) through which refrigerant flows from the evaporator (S) to be returned by a refrigerant pump (H, J) to the generator (G). A coolant flow circuit is interconnected with the evaporators for cooling secondary coolant in the evaporators and includes a coolant storage tank (Q) containing the coolant which may be a low freezing-point liquid or a refrigerant brine, a coolant pump (N) connected to the coolant tank for pumping coolant from the tank through cooling conduits (30-37) which conduct the coolant through the evaporators in heat exchange relationship with the refrigerant therein and through respective comfort zone and cargo zone cooling units for cooling the zones at different temperatures, the comfort zone being a passenger zone in the tractor of a tractor-trailer for example, and the cargo zone being a refrigerated compartment in the trailer. Refrigerant and coolant conduits, valves in the conduits including pressure-reducing valves (9, 11, 14, 18), temperature sensors (100, 102, 104, 110) and control devices (106, 114) are provided to control the separate flows of the refrigerant and coolant and the flow of the exhaust gas to the generator to obtain the desired temperatures in the comfort zone and cargo zone.

Efficacy of high sodium chloride concentrations for the destruction of Listeria monocytogenes

Abstract: The effect of sodium chloride concentrations (6, 16 and 26% (w/v) NaCl) on the survival of Listeria monocytogenes at low temperatures (10°C and under refrigeration, average 2°C) and frozen (- 18°C) was investigated All salt concentrations tested were ineffective in reducing numbers over 6 h incubation at low temperatures Over a longer time (33 d) at low temperatures, the organism grew in 6% NaCl, numbers remained the same in 16% NaCl and numbers declined in 26% NaCl Although L monocytogenes was destroyed in 26% NaCl, numbers declined too slowly for immersion in cold brine at this concentration to be a useful bacteriocidal treatment Storage at - 18°C for 33 d caused no significant reduction in numbers at any of the NaCl concentrations tested

Water softening process

Abstract: An improved process for regenerating the ion exchange resin in a water softening system. The process substantially reduces the amount of water and salt required for regeneration of the resin. The process includes the steps of venting the resin tank to the atmosphere and draining eventually all of the water from around the resin. Next, a brine solution is added to the resin tank. This is allowed to remain in contact with the resin until the resin is regenerated, preferably aided by energizing a vibrator positioned on the exterior of the tank. Next, the brine solution is drained from the resin tank which is then filled with water to rinse the brine from the resin. After rinsing, the resin is ready for use.

Archaebacterial activity in the Orca Basin determined by the isolation of characteristic isopranyl ether-linked lipids

Abstract: Phytanyl glycerol ether lipids characteristic of archaebacterial inputs have been quantified in 30 water samples taken in the Orca Basin, an anoxic hypersaline basin located in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico. Because of the Basin's anoxic hypersaline character, it seems likely that archaebacteria may play a significant role in the microbial ecology of the brine. Physical data, including temperature, salinity, per cent transmission, oxygen and nutrient concentrations, also were collected from six depths at five sampling sites in the Basin. Four of the five sites were characterized by a 200 m thick, anoxic brine (salinity ≈ 250 ppt) at an approximate water depth of 2240 m. A stepwise increase in salinity was associated with the brine-seawater interface, increasing from 38 to 150 ppt within the upper portion of the 10 m interface and to >250 ppt within the brine. Three distinct layers of particulate material were observed within the 10 m interface. Corresponding with the salinity gradient was a decrease in dissolved oxygen from 5.0 ml l−1 at 2040 m to 0 ml l−1 within the brine. Ammonia and phosphate concentrations increased from 0 and 2.5 μM above the brine to 519 and 63.5 μM within the brine. At the same time, nitrate concentrations decreased from 22 μM above the brine to negligible within the brine. Depletion of oxygen, with concomitant increases in ammonia and phosphate, decreased nitrate, and the production of methane suggest microbially mediated processes may be occurring at the brine-seawater interface. Highest concentrations of phytanyl ether lipids were observed within the interface, ranging from 29.7 to 84.1 ng l−1. Concentrations were negligible below the interface. Elevated phytanyl ether lipid concentrations in conjunction with microbial activity studies carried out by other investigators suggest that archaebacterial activity is occurring within the brine particulate layers. A decline in ether lipid concentration and microbial activity below this particulate interface indicates a reduction or slowing of microbial activity in the deeper anoxic brine. The bacteria responsible for methane production at the interface appear capable of growth under anoxic conditions at salinities up to 150 ppt. This unusual activity has not been commonly reported in other marine systems.

ƒ-Element Complexation in Brine Solutions

Abstract: A solvent extraction technique was used to measure the stability constants of the monoand diligand complexes of Eu + and UOi + with CI\" and NOJ at 3.5,6.5,10.0, and 14.1 m (NaC104) ionic strengths. The experimental values were analyzed by the Specific Interaction Theory and the range (in ionic strength) of the validity of that theory for these complexes is discussed.

Process for producing sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate and associated compounds

Abstract: A process for producing sodium carbonate from a variety of crude ores and brine containing sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate without the use of calcium carbonate. The process includes the steps of reacting the raw materials containing sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate with a bicarbonate filtrate containing ammonium chloride brine solution under heat, producing ammonia, carbon dioxide, and a mother liquor containing an aqueous solution of sodium chloride which is recycled. This solution may contain also sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate to enhance production. The mother liquor is separated and reacted with ammonia and carbon dioxide collected from the reacting step to crystalize sodium bicarbonate and produce an ammonium chloride brine solution which is recycled to react with the crude ore. In summary, the process will produce the equivalent sodium carbonate related to the ammonium chloride content of the bicarbonate filtrate in addition to the dissolved sodium carbonate values in the recycled ammonium chloride brine. The solution may be carried out on mined crude ore above ground or instead heated ammonium chloride brine solution may be pumped directly into the ore body in situ. Alternatively, heated sodium chloride solution may be passed through an underground ore deposit and the resulting solution reacted with ammonium chloride brine solution.

Method and apparatus for waste brine management in water conditioners

Abstract: A water softening device is provided with a waste storage tank for receiving waste liquid, such as hard water used to draw out brine from a brine storage tank, as well as the used brine itself during a regeneration cycle The tank outlet communicates with a sprinkler system, and when the sprinkler system is on, an injector valve sucks waste liquid from the waste tank to mix it in with the sprinkler system water and thereby further dilute the liquid A method of processing the waste water accordingly includes collecting this waste liquid and preferably mixing it in with the sprinkler fluid The brine waste and brine supply tanks in one embodiment are preferably formed as one unit with two separate compartments The inlet pipe to the brine waste compartment has an overflow safety valve which senses, through a float mechanism, when the tank is substantially full The valve has a normally closed port connected to a leach line or the like This normally closed port opens when the substantially full condition is sensed, while the normally open port leading to the interior of the tank closes, so that incoming waste water passes through the valve to the leach line without changing the water level in the tank

The process to recover salt from brine waste water

Abstract: The process to recover salt from brine water waste. By using the differentiation in the absorption and transmission of the infrared beam between sodium chloride or potassium chloride and organic compounds, the method of irradiating the salt crystals with infrared beam is used to vaporize and disintegrate the organic compounds on their surfaces. This method provides more economic and effective means of purifying salts from brine waste water containing high concentration of organic compounds.

Process for separating dissolved solids from a liquid using an anti-solvent and multiple effect evaporators

Abstract: A process and system for treating aluminum salt cake containing water soluble halide salts by contacting the salt cake with water to dissolve water soluble halide salts forming a saturated brine solution. Transporting a portion of about 25% of the saturated brine solution to a reactor and introducing into the saturated brine solution at least an equal volume of a water-miscible low-boiling organic material such as acetone to precipitate a portion of the dissolved halide salts forming a three-phase mixture of an aqueous-organic-salt solution phase and a precipitated salt phase and an organic rich phase. The precipitated salt phase is separated from the other phases and the organic rich phase is recycled to the reactor. The remainder of the saturated brine solution is sent to a multiple effect evaporator having a plurality of stages with the last stage thereof producing low grade steam which is used to boil off the organic portion of the solution which is recycled.

Method for oxygen removal with keto-gluconates

Abstract: There is disclosed a method for removing dissolved oxygen from aqueous systems, for example, boiler water systems for oil injection water or brine. The disclosed method uses a salt of a keto-gluconic acid, or a salt of a stereoisomer of a keto-gluconic acid, as the oxygen scavenger a metal containing compound which controls the rate of oxygen removal.

Simple voltammetric method for the determination of β-carotene in brine and soya oil samples at mercury and glassy carbon electrodes

Abstract: β-Carotene is a naturally occurring yellow–orange pigment, which can be derived from saline micro-algae marine phytoplankton and some plant-derived natural oils. In this work, a simple method for the determination of β-carotene, involving only solvent extraction from brine (or soya oil) samples into dichloromethane, followed by addition of electrolyte and direct measurement of the differential-pulse polarogram at mercury electrodes or differential-pulse voltammograms at a glassy carbon electrode, is described, based on the extremely well-defined two-electron oxidation process that occurs in non-aqueous solvents. The method has been applied to soya oil and brine reference concentrates and to feed and effluent samples associated with the production of β-carotene via marine micro-algae. Excellent agreement with a well-established spectrophotometric method has been obtained, confirming that the simple voltammetric method should be a useful addition to the analytical methodology available for monitoring the production of β-carotene concentrates.

Radiolytically-Induced Gas Production in Plutonium-Spiked Wipp Brine

Abstract: Gas generation due to alpha particle deposition was investigated in four WIPP relevant brines; WIPP brine A, ERDA-6, DH-36 and G8-B. This was done by spiking each brine with plutonium-239 and periodically sampling the gas phase to determine the nature of the gaseous products and the rates of gas generation. The predominant gas generated radiolytically was hydrogen, with yields ranging from 0.6 to 1.5 molec/100 eV for the four brines tested. Plutonium (VI) was stable in two synthetic brines, WIPP brine A and ERDA-6 but was rapidly reduced in the underground collected brines DH-36 and G8-B, although most of the plutonium remained in solution.