LAB TESTING AREAS
Bentonite Testing
Oil and natural gas drilling companies are required to follow regulations from several different entities, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state-level environmental agencies. Of particular concern is the possible contamination from spilled or released bentonite clay contained in most drilling fluids.
Bentonite is a generic name describing the various clays formed from the weathering of volcanic ash, but it is mostly composed of the mineral montmorillonite, which is often included in drilling fluids (and other products) to cool and lubricate the drill bit. Montmorillonite is a swelling clay that can absorb water into its crystal structure. RJ Lee Group provides bentonite testing for the oil and gas industries to help companies avoid potential issues that could result from bentonite spills.
Bentonite Spills and the Environment
Although bentonite is nontoxic, it can adversely affect wildlife and water wells. Environmental agencies monitor drilling activities according to their permitting regulations, to ensure that drilling fluid is not being spilled or discharged into surrounding lakes and other water sources. If a spill is detected, construction must be halted, costing the drilling company tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in clean-up, remediation, and even fines.
RJ Lee Group is among the few laboratories in the United States equipped to perform bentonite identification analysis. Our experts utilize advanced x-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques, guided by the USGS Clay Phase ID Flow Diagram, to accurately detect the presence of bentonite. This method takes advantage of the predictable behaviors of certain minerals, allowing us to not only determine if montmorillonite is present but also identify all clays in the sample through a comprehensive four-step process. For additional insights, a bulk XRD analysis is conducted as a final step.
Regular sampling and analysis of soil and water around a drilling site will quickly alert oil and gas drilling companies to a possible bentonite spill, allowing for quick containment and remediation, plus avoiding potentially costly fines and work.
A History of Expertise and Innovation
RJ Lee Group has assessed environmental issues since the early 1980s when our Energy Technology Consultants (ETC) pioneered the recognition of specific air quality patterns. We developed a cutting-edge technique for identifying, measuring, and characterizing particles in the air using computer-controlled scanning electron microscopy (CCSEM).
RJ Lee Group has worked with clients in various industries, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to assess and provide solutions for environmental factors that could affect our health. Our services have grown over the years, from setting controls for unbound nanoparticles (UNP) to designing and building test chambers to simulate specific environmental conditions.
Today we offer our expertise for our clients’ environmental and compliance concerns and perform rigorous assessment and management of potential environmental risks.
Discuss Bentonite Testing with an Expert
Working with a testing lab with specialized knowledge and experience in Bentonite testing is essential to maintaining regulatory compliance and meeting environmental health and safety standards at the drill site and beyond. If bentonite releases are a concern for your organization, schedule time to discuss your concerns with one of our experts.