Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-2026

Abstract

This study presents a regional assessment of produced water (PW) quality from oil and gas wells in South Texas, with a focus on variability and its implications for treatment and reuse. As oil and gas production continues to expand, PW waste streams will continue to grow. With a focus on the Eagle Ford Shale, understanding the chemical composition is critical for effective PW management. A total of 28 PW samples were collected from wells located in Pleasanton, Jourdanton, and Tilden, Texas. Samples were analyzed for key parameters including total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride, total hardness, and calcium. The results showed variability across all parameters, with TDS and chloride showing a strong correlation, indicating that chloride is a prominent contributor to salinity. A strong relationship was also found between calcium and total hardness highlighting calcium as the primary driver for scaling potential. A subset of lower-salinity wells was identified, potentially due to shallower formations, indicating that geological variability plays a vital role in PW composition. The findings in this study suggest that PW chemistry is influenced more by concentration differences rather than compositional changes. The key takeaway emphasizes the need for site-specific management strategies. These findings also assess the implications for treatment and reuse feasibility, cost, and supporting the concept of fit-for-purpose water management in South Texas.

Comments

Research Project Report (Non-thesis track)

Department of Natural Sciences Texas A&M University - San Antonio

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN WATER RESOURCES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

May 2026

© Copyright (2026) by Hunter T. Barnett. All rights reserved.

Download

Share

COinS