A new generation of models, laboratory, and field studies is helping scientists answer important questions about this mysterious substance.
oil & gas
Posted inNews
Fugitive Gas Abetted by Barometric Pressure
Barometric pressure, in addition to factors such as lithology and the depth of the water table, can influence patterns of natural gas that escapes to subsurface soils.
Posted inNews
Keystone Pipeline Spills 9,120 Barrels of Oil in Dakota Wetlands
The leak took place along a preexisting section of the Keystone Pipeline. This is the pipeline’s fourth spill in 9 years.
Posted inNews
Brazil’s Oil Spill Is a Mystery, so Scientists Try Oil Forensics
Thousands of barrels of oil have been tarring Brazil’s beaches since September, and no one knows why. An oil spill scientist is running oil forensics to find out.
Posted inNews
House Passes Measure to Protect Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
The measure, which would repeal an oil and gas development program in the refuge, now needs to pass the Senate, where there is stiff opposition.
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Sinking Wastewater Triggers Deeper, Stronger Earthquakes
The effects of pumping wastewater from oil and gas extractions may last a decade or more after the injections stop.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Old Idea Spurs New Research into Origins of Carbonate Mudstones
Using modern techniques, scientists tested an old hypothesis about carbonate mud production to shift the thinking about rocks that are used as seawater archives and a source of petroleum.
Posted inResearch Spotlights
Forecasting Seismicity from Wastewater Disposal in Oklahoma
Mandated wastewater injection reductions in effect since 2016 are inadequate for preventing future, large-magnitude earthquakes in the state, according to a new induced seismicity model.
Posted inNews
Detecting Fugitive Methane Leaks for Public Safety
A holistic approach to tracking leaks from natural gas pipelines could prevent explosions and also help reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Posted inNews
Catching Oklahoma’s Tiny Tremors in the Act
Scientists map thousands of microearthquakes in Oklahoma to take a closer look at the seismic effects of wastewater injection following oil and gas operations.