Next Generation Oil and Gas Tracer Technology

speaker1

Welcome to our podcast, where we explore the latest advancements in the oil and gas industry. I’m your host, [Name], and today we’re joined by a fascinating expert to discuss the revolutionary DNA-based tracer technology from DSO. So, let’s dive right in! [Name], what exactly is DSO, and what makes their tracer technology so special?

speaker2

Hi, I’m [Name], and I’m really excited to be here! DSO, or Diagnostic Stimulation Optimization Inc., is a company that has been making waves in the oil and gas industry with their innovative tracer technology. They use DNA to track fluid movement in reservoirs and wells, which is a game-changer. But can you tell us more about the current state of the market and why DSO is so important?

speaker1

Absolutely! The oil and gas tracer market is currently dominated by a few key players like Core Laboratories, STS Tracer Services, and Tracerco. These companies offer traditional tracer services, but they all face significant limitations. For example, traditional tracers can only track up to 60 stages, and they are often limited by environmental and technical constraints. This is where DSO comes in. DSO has developed a DNA-based tracer that can handle virtually unlimited numbers of tracers, providing a much more detailed and accurate picture of what’s happening underground.

speaker2

Wow, that’s really interesting. Can you walk us through some of the limitations of traditional tracer technology? I’m curious to know why these limitations are so significant.

speaker1

Certainly! One of the biggest limitations of traditional tracers is the number of stages they can track. Most current technologies can only handle up to 60 tracers, which is a major constraint as modern wells often have hundreds of stages. Additionally, traditional tracers can be depleted through adsorption on rock formations, requiring a significant excess to achieve a detectable signal. This not only increases costs but also introduces environmental concerns. Another issue is the risk of cross-contamination, especially when adjacent operations use the same tracers. All these factors make it challenging to get a clear and accurate picture of fluid movement in the reservoir.

speaker2

That makes a lot of sense. So, how does DSO’s DNA-based tracer technology address these limitations? Can you explain how it works and what makes it so effective?

speaker1

Absolutely! DSO’s tracer technology uses patented nanoparticles with encapsulated synthetic oligonucleotides, or DNA, which are injected into different frac stages, sub-stages, and segments of a single or multi-stage stimulation procedure. These nanoparticles are protected by a silica coating, which prevents degradation in harsh underground environments. When the tracers are recovered, the protection is removed, and the DNA can be analyzed using proprietary methods. This allows for the tracking of fluid movement with unprecedented precision, even in complex reservoirs. DSO’s technology can handle hundreds of tracers simultaneously, providing a detailed and statistically relevant picture of what’s happening underground.

speaker2

That sounds incredibly advanced. What are some of the key benefits and applications of DSO’s tracer technology? How does it impact the industry?

speaker1

The benefits are numerous. First, DSO’s tracers are synthesized routinely and inexpensively, and the number of possible tracers is virtually unlimited, thanks to the 80nt DNA strand. This means that operators can get a much more detailed and accurate picture of their reservoirs. The technology is also non-toxic, biodegradable, and environmentally safe, addressing many of the environmental concerns associated with traditional tracers. In terms of applications, DSO’s tracers can be used in drilling mud, completion fluids, sand, water flood, CO2 injection, and midstream transportation. This broad range of applications makes it a versatile tool for optimizing well completion and production strategies.

speaker2

That’s really impressive. Can you tell us more about DSO’s field deployment capabilities? How do they ensure that the tracers are deployed effectively and efficiently?

speaker1

Sure! DSO’s field deployment is designed to be efficient and safe. They use a small footprint, minimal capital equipment, and a mobile setup. The entire process is automated and digital, with one technician per job per tour. They spot on the low side of the manifold, establish a pump schedule, and inject the tracers into the frac pump according to the schedule. All the equipment is AC powered, which reduces the risk of hazardous exposure. After the job is completed, they sign the field ticket and post the job report. This streamlined process ensures that the tracers are deployed accurately and efficiently, with minimal disruption to the site.

speaker2

That’s really reassuring. How does DSO’s technology give them a competitive advantage over other companies in the market?

speaker1

DSO’s competitive advantage lies in several key areas. First, they have an unlimited number of DNA sequences available, which allows for a much more detailed and accurate tracking of fluid movement. Second, their technology is completely safe and environmentally friendly, with zero environmental risk. Third, their data mining and data clarity capabilities are superior, providing significant advantages in terms of accuracy and reliability. These factors, combined with their strong intellectual property portfolio, including several patents, secure DSO’s position as the leader in this field.

speaker2

That’s really compelling. What about environmental and safety considerations? How does DSO ensure that their technology is safe for both the environment and the people working with it?

speaker1

Health, safety, and the environment are core values for DSO. They have stringent quality control measures in place to ensure the highest level of safety in their operations. The tracers are non-toxic, biodegradable, and environmentally safe, which means they can be transported, handled, stored, and disposed of without risk. DSO also holds all employees and management accountable for their safety and the safety of those around them. They have a set of 10 principle rules that guide their operations, covering everything from high-risk situations to evacuation work. This comprehensive approach ensures that safety is a top priority at every step of the process.

speaker2

That’s really impressive. Can you share some client testimonials or case studies to give us a better idea of how DSO’s technology is being used in the field?

speaker1

Certainly! One of DSO’s key clients is Diamondback Energy, which completes around 50 wells per month. They have been using DSO’s tracers to optimize their well completions and production strategies, leading to significant improvements in efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Another example is Apache, which has a large position in the Permian Basin and is using DSO’s technology for water flood and CO2 injection projects. These projects have shown promising results in terms of improved recovery rates and enhanced reservoir management. Overall, DSO’s technology is making a significant impact on the industry, helping operators to make more informed decisions and achieve better outcomes.

speaker2

That’s really exciting to hear. What does the future hold for DSO and the oil and gas industry as a whole? Are there any upcoming developments or trends that we should be aware of?

speaker1

The future looks bright for DSO and the oil and gas industry. As the industry continues to grow, especially in areas like the Permian Basin, the need for advanced tracer technology will only increase. DSO is well-positioned to meet this demand with their cutting-edge DNA-based tracers. They are also continuously researching and developing new applications for their technology, such as in drilling mud and midstream transportation. Additionally, the integration of AI and machine learning into their analytics will further enhance their capabilities, providing even more detailed and actionable insights for operators. The future of oil and gas is all about maximizing efficiency and sustainability, and DSO is leading the way in this transformation.