Department of Petroleum Engineering, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Ibadan, Nigeria
Isehunwa, S.O., Department of Petroleum Engineering, University of Ibadan, Nigeria; Onovae, S., Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Ibadan, Nigeria
Water produced during petroleum production often contain chemicals, oil and sometimes, naturally occurring radioactive materials which could harm the environment. Management, which involves significant cost and is guided by strict regulations, is normally aimed at minimizing or reducing the toxicity of discharged volumes. This study evaluated the physico-chemical properties and constituents of produced water from three selected flowstations and two oil terminals in the Niger Delta to determine the extent of compliance with standards and global best practices in the treatment and discharge. It was observed that while physico-chemical properties like pH (8.4±0.25) and BOD (6.2±2.0) were within recommended limits, oil and grease content (60±20), TDS (6200±700) and others exceeded limits. Similarly, ion concentrations of Lead, Nickel, Zinc and Sulphates were within acceptable limits while chloride ions (4100 ±500) exceeded limits. There is therefore the need to improve treatment facilities and procedures, while regulatory agencies must improve current guidelines, ensure proper monitoring and enforcing compliance. © 2006-2011 Asian Research Publishing Network (ARPN).