Graduation Semester and Year
Spring 2025
Language
English
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Chemistry
Department
Chemistry and Biochemistry
First Advisor
Dr. Kevin A. Schug
Second Advisor
Dr. Charles P. Shelor
Third Advisor
Dr. Krishnan Rajeshwar
Abstract
This thesis presents a comprehensive analytical investigation of produced water samples from various oil and gas extraction sites using gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Produced water, a significant byproduct of hydrocarbon extraction, contains complex mixtures of organic and inorganic compounds that present analytical challenges and environmental concerns. This research focuses on comparing analytical methodologies, identifying chemical constituents, and evaluating the performance of these techniques against established reference data.
The study analyzed multiple produced water samples for organic compounds using EPA Methods 8260 and 8270, and for elemental composition using EPA Method 6010. Significant discrepancies were observed between newly generated ICP-OES data and previously reported 2023 reference data, particularly for elements such as boron, calcium, iron, and strontium. These variations ranged from 15% to over 85% for certain elements across sample groups. The results indicate potential implications for environmental monitoring, regulatory compliance, and treatment system design.
The research contributes to the analytical chemistry field by highlighting methodological considerations for produced water analysis, identifying technique-specific limitations, and suggesting protocol improvements. Future work recommendations include method validation studies, investigation of matrix effects, and development of standardized analytical procedures specifically optimized for high-salinity, complex-matrix produced water samples.
License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Pabley, Anush, "GC-MS, GC-FID, and ICP-OES Analysis of Produced Water: Characterization, Method Comparison and Environmental Implications" (2025). Chemistry & Biochemistry Theses. 120.
https://mavmatrix.uta.edu/chemistry_theses/120