Abstract

ROMERO SILVA, Roberto et al. Chemical-biological stabilization in diesel-contaminated drilling cuts. Universidad y Sociedad [online]. 2023, vol.15, n.3, pp. 750-759.  Epub June 30, 2023. ISSN 2218-3620.

The introduction of new formulations of drilling fluids in the extraction of crude oil at Cuba requires viable environmental methodologies, low costs and handling facilities, to avoid the negative impact on the environment of storing large amounts of hazardous waste without final disposal. The level of contamination of fluid-impregnated drilling cuttings depends on the type of mud used and conditions at the site of the oil field. The objective of this work is to evaluate a chemical-biological stabilization process at bench scale, through the use of calcium sulfate and the application of a bioremediation process in the treatment and final disposal of drilling cuttings contaminated by the use of muds with diesel fuel. In bioremediation, two organic conditioning products with a high nutrient load evaluated. The process corresponds to a categorical multifactorial experimental design with two response variables. It was possible to reach concentration levels below the reference regulations, with the application of the process and experimental variants carried out. The use of the soil improver product in biological stabilization allowed reaching biodegradation efficiencies of 68 % of greases and oils, and 71 % of total hydrocarbons. These results make it possible to ensure correct handling and final disposal of these residues in the environment.

Keywords : Contamination; Bioremediation; Greases and oils; Total hydrocarbons.