In the Permian Basin fracking industry, an estimated 168 billion gallons of wastewater, or produced water, is generated each year. This wastewater is difficult and costly to treat due to its chemical complexity. Researchers at The University of Texas at El Paso have proposed using bacteriophages as a novel method of treating this wastewater, which could provide a rapid and cost-effective solution on an industrial scale. Ramón Antonio Sánchez, a doctoral candidate at UTEP, is the first author of the study that details how bacteriophages, viruses that specifically target and kill bacteria, can be utilized for this purpose.
The research focuses on two common bacteria found in produced water: Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus megaterium. P. aeruginosa can corrode infrastructure such as pipelines, while B. megaterium can decompose hydrocarbons. Inspired by the use of bacteriophages in the medical industry to combat drug-resistant bacteria, Sánchez and his collaborator, Zacariah Hildenbrand, Ph.D., decided to explore their potential in treating produced water. Bacteriophages attach to specific receptors on the surface of bacteria, evolving alongside them to counter any resistance that may develop, making them a promising solution for treating produced water effectively.
Experiments in the laboratory have shown that bacteriophages can successfully inactivate P. aeruginosa and B. megaterium. Sánchez plans to continue this work in the industry to replicate these results on a larger scale, with the goal of expanding the range of microorganisms that can be treated in produced water by obtaining a wider selection of bacteriophages. However, there are challenges to overcome, such as the limited availability of commercially viable bacteriophages, as well as the need to test additional species of bacteria found in produced water.
If successful, this approach could revolutionize the treatment, reuse, and recycling of produced water in the oil and gas industry, providing a more sustainable alternative to the current practice of disposal through injection into the ground after exploration. By using bacteriophages to target specific bacteria in the wastewater, the industry could reduce costs and environmental impact while improving the overall efficiency of oil and gas production. As Sánchez prepares to graduate with his Ph.D., his research will pave the way for further exploration and application of bacteriophages in treating wastewater in the oil and gas industry.
The potential benefits of using bacteriophages for wastewater treatment extend beyond treating produced water in the oil and gas industry. The adaptability and specificity of bacteriophages offer a promising solution for various industries facing challenges related to bacterial contamination. By leveraging the unique properties of bacteriophages, researchers and industry professionals can develop innovative techniques for combating bacterial pollution, promoting sustainability, and enhancing efficiency in diverse sectors. The ongoing research at UTEP underscores the importance of exploring new avenues for wastewater treatment to address the growing environmental concerns associated with industrial activities.
