The growing oil and gas industry is constantly faced with the challenge of efficient management of Produced Water, a byproduct of hydrocarbon production that poses significant environmental and operational concerns, mainly due to the substantial volumes generated during extraction. Produced Water is usually contaminated with hydrocarbons, other organic substances, salts, heavy metals, and inorganic substances, and must be treated before disposal. This study explores the transformation of rice husk, an abundant agricultural waste, into biochar for its potential use in treating produced water. FARO 44 rice husk was selected based on favorable adsorption properties such as silica content, porosity, and surface functionality. Through controlled pyrolysis, 315 g of biochar was obtained from 1 kg of feedstock. Characterization using SEM revealed porous surface cavities; EDX confirmed high carbon and silica content along with ash-forming elements (Ca, Mg, K, P); and FTIR identified dominant functional groups for contaminant removal: C-H bending for hydrocarbons, Si–OH (silanol groups) for heavy metals, and O–H (including protonated –OH₂+) for inorganic ions. A batch adsorption setup was used to filter 1200 mL of produced water through the biochar, yielding 950 mL of treated water. Analytical results showed removal efficiencies of 95.9% for total hydrocarbons, 65.1% for inorganic ions, and 58.6% for heavy metals, with some metal leaching observed. These findings confirm rice husk biochar as a promising low-cost, eco-friendly treatment medium aligned with circular economy and sustainability goals.
F. Kabir, A. Salihu, A. Gimba et al.· SPE Nigeria Annual Internati...· 0 citations
Artificial Intelligence (AI)–enhanced Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is transforming advanced manufacturing, including aerospace and energy sectors, by enabling precise, efficient, and reliable production of complex components. Through a synthesis of recent literature and theoretical analysis, this study highlights how AI-driven CAM optimizes toolpaths, improves predictive maintenance, and enhances machining accuracy and structural integrity. Key advances from 2020–2025, such as digital twins, adaptive toolpath strategies, hybrid additive-subtractive processes, and smart machining environments, demonstrate reduced errors, faster production cycles, and improved integration between design and manufacturing teams. Challenges remain in data availability, implementation costs, workforce readiness, cybersecurity, and process integration. The paper contributes by providing updated insights into AI-CAM synergy and strategies for practical industrial adoption.
T. Ogedengbe, S. Ogunlowo, O. V. Eşidir et al.· SPE Nigeria Annual Internati...· 0 citations
The Nigerian oil and gas industry, a major contributor to national revenue and employment, has long been dominated by multinational corporations, limiting indigenous participation and resulting in significant capital flight. In response, the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act was enacted in 2010 to enhance local capacity, increase domestic economic retention, and foster technological advancement through the involvement of Nigerian firms. This research critically evaluates the implementation of the Act, by analyzing compliance trends, challenges faced by indigenous companies, and comparative practices from leading oil-producing nations such as Norway, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia. Secondary data from the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), NNPC, and industry reports form the basis of the analysis. While local content compliance has improved, from 5% in 2010 to 56.7% in 2024, persistent barriers such as limited access to finance, skill shortages, infrastructural constraints, and weak enforcement mechanisms continue to hinder full effectiveness. Case studies, such as Waltersmith Refinery, highlight the potential for indigenous success when supportive frameworks are present. The study concludes with policy recommendations including the deployment of digital compliance tracking systems, expansion of local financing schemes, targeted technical training programs, and periodic legislative reviews to strengthen indigenous participation, enhance economic sustainability, and improve global competitiveness in Nigeria's oil and gas sector.
A. Salihu, V. Essien, H. Oruwari et al.· SPE Nigeria Annual Internati...· 0 citations
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