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Oil Sands Environmental Management Bibliography

The Cumulative Environmental Management Association (CEMA)partnered with the Oil Sands Research and Information Network (OSRIN) to create the new Oil Sands Environmental Management Bibliography, which includes documents relevant to the environmental management of oil sands development in Alberta. The majority of the documents focus on the mineable oil sands in the Athabasca deposit, though some documents relate to in-situ developments. This bibliography was last updated in November 2014.

Review of oil sands tailings technology options

Authors Powter, C. B., Biggar K. W., Silva M. J., McKenna G. T., & Scordo E. B.
Year of Publication: 2011

Citation:
Powter, C. B., Biggar K. W., Silva M. J., McKenna G. T., & Scordo E. B. (2011).  Review of oil sands tailings technology options. 10 pages .
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Review of pollutant transformation processes relevant to the Alberta oil sands area

Authors Bottenheim, J. W., & Strausz O. P.
Year of Publication: 1977

Abstract:
Chemical transformation processes in polluted atmospheres are described, with particular reference to the oil sands area in northeastern Alberta. The relevant atmospheric chemistry is discussed under four headings: clean air chemistry, oxidant chemistry, SO2 chemistry, and aerosol chemistry. It is concluded that high ozone concentrations and the formation of PAN-type oxidants would probably take place, especially during the summer when the ambient concentrations of naturally occurring reactive hydrocarbons from the wooded surroundings and other evaporated hydrocarbons at the site of the oil sand extraction plants might be sufficient to fuel the oxidant chemistry. Since the major polluting species in the oil sands area is expected to be SO2 the atmospheric chemistry of so is reviewed in detail. Homogeneous gas 2 phase reactions via interaction with oxidative processes is indicated to be a probable prime transformation route for the conversion of SO2 to sulphate during the summer, while aqueous phase reactions will be of importance all year round. Purely heterogeneous reaction routes are expected to be of minor importance. In reviewing the published literature, emphasis was given to recent studies, up to December, 1976, resulting in a list of 428 references. Those studies having direct relevance to the climatic and geographic conditions of northeastern Alberta are described in a separate chapter. In this regard, the effects of low winter temperatures and the large difference in the amount and spectral distribution of available sunlight between summer and winter are indicated and compared with results from a few other unrelated studies which can be extrapolated to northeastern Alberta, in order to make a prognosis on how these factors might influence the chemical evolution of polluted atmospheres. Atmospheric chemical transformation processes for which mechanistic or experimental data are lacking, are identified and some research projects which would lead to a better understanding and prediction of the chemistry of polluted air are outlined, with special emphasis on the particular problems which may arise in the vicinity of the oil sand extraction plants.

Citation:
Bottenheim, J. W., & Strausz O. P. (1977).  Review of pollutant transformation processes relevant to the Alberta oil sands area. 174 pages . Abstract
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Review of potential cumulative impacts to surface water and groundwater from current and proposed in-situ oil sands operations

Authors
Year of Publication: 2013

Abstract:
There are several planned large in-situ oil sands projects in the Athabasca Oil Sands region near the MacKay River, to which a variety of concerns have been raised. The Cumulative Environmental Management Association - Groundwater Technical Group requested SNC-Lavalin Inc., Environment & Water division to summarize and present the current state of knowledge related to potential cumulative impacts to surface water and groundwater systems from current and proposed in-situ oil sands operations in the MacKay River watershed.

Citation:
[Anonymous] (2013).  Review of potential cumulative impacts to surface water and groundwater from current and proposed in-situ oil sands operations. (SNC-Lavalin Inc., Ed.). 58 pages. Abstract
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Review of predictive modelling tools for wildlife and fish key indicators in the Wood Buffalo region

Authors
Year of Publication: 2001

Abstract:
Specific objectives addressed in this report are: 1) Identify and describe existing habitat and population predictive modelling tools for evaluating the response of the Priority #1 and Priority #2 wildlife and fish indicators to natural and human-caused environmental chagne at the regional and management unit scales; 2) Complete a preliminary evaluation of the advantages, disadvantages, data requirements, research requirements, and costs to implement various modeling approaches at the regional and management unit scale; 3) Consider the feasibility of incorporating traditional knowledge into the models, considering the type of data and when it would be available; and 4) Present findings and prepare final reports documenting the results of the evaluation, and recommend appropriate modelling tools and an approach to model testing and implementation.

Citation:
[Anonymous] (2001).  Review of predictive modelling tools for wildlife and fish key indicators in the Wood Buffalo region. (Salmo Consulting Inc., URSUS Ecosystems Management Ltd, GAIA Consultants Inc., Ed.). 54 pages . Abstract
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Review of reclamation options for oil sands tailings substrates

Authors
Year of Publication: 2010

Abstract:
BGC Engineering Inc. (BGC) conducted a scoping study of the state of knowledge related to technologies for reclaiming oil sands tailings substrates to upland boreal forests and wetlands for the Oil Sands Research and Information Network (OSRIN). The objective of the scoping study is to help establish an understanding of the status of fine tailings reclamation technology in the Athabasca Oil Sands Region (AOSR). Relevant research was compiled from peer reviewed and non-peer reviewed sources including journals, conference proceedings, magazine articles, internal and consultant reports. Industry researchers and academics were contacted for their information. Until recently, a wet landscape scenario, in which mature fine tailings (MFT) would be stored in pits and capped with a layer of freshwater to form an artificial lake, was the most likely reclamation option for MFT. In this scenario, pit lakes (PL), or end-pit lakes (EPL) are designed to remediate process-affected waters from tailings landforms through bioremediation and dilution. As an alternative to water-capping, much of the current research has focused on reclamation technologies that would result in a dry landscape. Reclamation of fine tailings using a dry landscape scenario first requires stabilization of the deposit to allow access for heavy machinery (trafficability). Soil cover designs and revegetation prescriptions are used to reclaim the tailings substrate to an equivalent land capability or ecosystem function. Wetland design and upland forest reclamation are active areas of research in fine tailings reclamation, including the potential impacts of increased salinity on plant species selection, germination and growth.

Citation:
[Anonymous] (2010).  Review of reclamation options for oil sands tailings substrates. (BGC Engineering Inc., Ed.). 59 pages . Abstract
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Review of requirements for air quality simulation models

Authors Davison, D. S., & Lantz R. B.
Year of Publication: 1980

Abstract:
Air quality models have long been recognized as a valuable tool for the proper management of the air resources of a region. In view of the high costs involved in adapting and operating air quality models, management of the Alberta Oil Sands Environmental Research Program (AOSERP) considered it advisable to update the user survey carried out in February 1977 (Padro 1977) to ensure that selected air quality models would relate to the improved perceptions of model requirements by potential users. The specific objectives of the present study were to define and priorize types of air quality problems by a survey of user requirements and to suggest types of air quality simulation models which will meet identified needs. The model selection procedure developed for this study involved application, implementation, and tmportance parameters to characterize the model types. The application parameters assigned to each model type reflected how well the model type simulated various levels of physical processes which determined the wind flow and dispersion from an industrial source. The implementation parameters considered the operational requirements for input data, computers, and technical personnel. Importance parameters evaluated the degree to which the various physical processes were important for a particular identified user need. This model selection methodology ensured a systematic consideration of the many factors involved in choosing a recommended model type.

Citation:
Davison, D. S., & Lantz R. B. (1980).  Review of requirements for air quality simulation models. 95 pages . Abstract
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Review of technologies for the characterization and monitoring of VOCs reduced sulphur compounds and CH4

Authors Hashisho, Z., Small C. C., & Morshed G.
Year of Publication: 2012

Abstract:
The overall goal of this project is to better understand the advantages and limitations of air emission pollutant characterization and monitoring techniques from area sources. This will allow for the selection of current technologies that are most suitable for measuring fugitive emissions of air pollutants from oil sands tailings ponds. The project consists of the following tasks: Task 1: Review concentration measurement technologies for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) reduced sulphur compounds (including H2S), and CH4. Task 2: Review flux measurement technologies that are used or can be used to measure air pollutant emissions from oil sand tailing ponds. Task 1: Review concentration measurement technologies for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), reduced sulphur compounds, and CH4 Methodology A review was conducted to determine the available technologies for characterizing and measuring the flux of each of the three groups of pollutants (VOCs, reduced sulphur compounds, and CH4). The review of the technologies included the following: a short description of the technology and its operating principle; instrument sensitivity (detection limit); advantages and limitations of the technique (performance, versatility, reliability); and cost, whenever possible. Costs do not include the labour to collect samples or the costs involved in running the analyses at other laboratories, as these are variable. However, such costs should be weighed when considering the application of the different technologies. Sample collecting procedures are important as they may affect the accuracy and precision of the technologies; these techniques are generally standard and have not been focused on for this report. Technologies for VOC Characterization The technologies for VOC characterization were classified into conventional analytical technologies (based on laboratory and field techniques) and remote sensing monitoring technologies (based on field techniques). The following technologies have been reviewed and assessed: • Conventional Analytical Technologies o Flame Ionization Detection (FID) o Infrared (IR) Absorption Spectroscopy o Photo Ionization Detection (PID) o Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) o Proton-Transfer-Reaction Mass Spectrometry (PTR-MS) o Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy • Remote Sensing Monitoring Technologies o Open Path Fourier Transform Infrared (OP-FTIR) Spectroscopy o Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) o Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) o Differential Absorption LIDAR (DIAL) o Solar Occultation Flux (SOF) Technologies for Reduced Sulphur Compound Characterization The technologies for reduced sulphur compound characterization were classified into conventional analytical technologies (based on laboratory techniques and field techniques) and remote sensing monitoring technologies (based on field techniques). The following technologies have been reviewed and assessed: • Conventional Analytical Technologies o Flame Photometric Detection (FPD) o Pulsed Flame Photometric Detection (PFPD) o Sulphur Chemiluminescence Detection (SCD) o Photo Ionization Detectors (PID) o Ultraviolet (UV) Spectrometric Detection • Remote Sensing Monitoring Technologies o Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) o Image Multi-Spectral Sensing (IMSS) o Differential Absorption LIDAR (DIAL) o Open Path Fourier Transform Infrared (OP- FTIR) Spectroscopy Technologies for CH4 Characterization The technologies for CH4 characterization were classified into conventional analytical technologies (based on laboratory and field techniques) and remote sensing monitoring technologies (based on field techniques). The following technologies have been reviewed and assessed: • Conventional Analytical Technologies o Infrared (IR) Absorption o Mid-Infrared Polarization Spectroscopy o Photoacoustic Absorption Spectroscopy (PAS) o Solid State (SS) sensor o Wavelength Modulation Spectroscopy (WMS) • Remote Sensing Monitoring Technologies o Radial Plume Mapping (RPM) o Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) o Correlation Spectroscopy (CS) o Airborne Natural Gas Emission Lidar (ANGEL) Task 2: Review flux measurement technologies that are used or can be used to measure emissions from air pollutant emissions and greenhouse gases from oil sand tailing ponds. The technologies for measuring concentration fluxes of fugitive emissions within the atmosphere were also classified into conventional analytical techniques and remote sensing monitoring technologies (all based on field techniques). The following technologies have been reviewed and assessed: • Conventional Analytical Techniques o Chamber Methods o Eddy Covariance (EC) o Eddy Accumulation and Relaxed Eddy Accumulation o Flux Gradient Techniques o Mass Balance Techniques o Tracer Gas Method • Remote Sensing Monitoring Technologies o Solar Occultation Flux (SOF) o Nocturnal Boundary Layer Box Method o Radial Plume Mapping (RPM) The report concludes with recommendations for technologies to use for monitoring air emissions from oil sands tailings ponds based on the following factors: spatial coverage, quantification of the pollutants, determination of emission factor, characterization of VOC speciation, and frequency of monitoring. For a variety of reasons there may not be one technology that is best suited for emission measurements across the oil sands region, and it is important to understand the different advantages and limitations of the technologies when selecting an option and interpreting the resulting data.

Citation:
Hashisho, Z., Small C. C., & Morshed G. (2012).  Review of technologies for the characterization and monitoring of VOCs reduced sulphur compounds and CH4. 93 pages . Abstract
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Review of the BRIK (Bitumen Royalty-in-Kind) program

Authors
Year of Publication: 2013

Citation:
[Anonymous] (2013).  Review of the BRIK (Bitumen Royalty-in-Kind) program. (Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future, Ed.). 36 pages .
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Review of the effects of storage on topsoil quality

Authors
Year of Publication: 1990

Abstract:
A review of pertinent literature was conducted to examine the effects of long term storage on topsoil quality in Alberta in order to determine optimum storage methods and periods of storage. Exhaustive computer data searches were conducted to establish the literature base, which was subsequently collected, categorized, and thoroughly examined. In addition to the literature review, a survey of appropriate Alberta companies and government services was conducted to focus on the Alberta experience. The effects of topsoil storage on soil quality was examined with respect to soil chemistry, soil physics, soil biology, and soil zone. These effects were directly applied to current Alberta topsoil storage practices in the mining, oil and gas, and aggregate industries. Conclusions from the literature review indicated that topsoil storage does not appear to have any severe and long term effect on topsoil quality. Chemical changes can be rectified with the judicious use of chemical fertilizers or manure. Physical changes appear to be potentially less serious than changes in soil quality associated with stripping and re-spreading operations. Soil biota revert to pre-disturbance levels of activity within predictable time frames, a knowledge of which will assist in storage pile design. The primary recommendation for improvement of topsoil storage in Alberta pertains to native pasture and forestry post industrial land use. The soil biota for such areas can be maintained in a highly viable state if storage piles are broad and shallow to maintain aeration, and the use of agrochemicals is carefully considered so as not to destroy soil biota by overuse of fertilizers and herbicides. For cultivated agriculture and industrial plantsite areas, current storage practices comply with recommendations within the report. Once again, however, precautions with respect to herbicide use should be considered.

Citation:
[Anonymous] (1990).  Review of the effects of storage on topsoil quality. (Thurber Consultants Ltd., Land Resources Network Ltd., Norwest Soil Research Ltd., Ed.). 228 pages . Abstract
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Review of the legislation and policy related to reclamation landform design in the Athabasca oil sands region of Alberta

Authors Morin, D.
Year of Publication: 2002

Abstract:
The report objectives were: 1) Interview government regulators and industry representatives to determine the legislation applicable to reclamation landform design in the oil sands region; 2) Conduct a search and review of relevant material to determine the extent of information available, highlighting significant sections of legislation, regulation, and policy; 3) Create a list of existing legislation relating to reclamation landform design in the oil sands region. Develop and establish a reclamation landform design collection through compilation of important documents; 4) Briefly summarize the main elements of the legislation and approvals that affect landscape and landform design and closure planning in a logical framework, indicating the significance of each element; 5) Create and provide a summary table of findings; 6) Prepare a document that contains all of the above in a formal report structure for wider distribution; 7) Conduct a literature review of subjects related to mine closure and reclamation that would be compiled into a bibliographic document.

Citation:
Morin, D. (2002).  Review of the legislation and policy related to reclamation landform design in the Athabasca oil sands region of Alberta. 22 pages . Abstract
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Review of the Ozone Management Framework's ozone metrics for vegetation protection

Authors Lefohn, A. S., & Musselman R. C.
Year of Publication: 2011

Abstract:
This report contains a review of ozone metrics for vegetation protection to ensure that the AWG is applying the most region-specific and appropriate metric through the Ozone Management Framework.

Citation:
Lefohn, A. S., & Musselman R. C. (2011).  Review of the Ozone Management Framework's ozone metrics for vegetation protection. 51 pages . Abstract
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Review of water management alternatives on water depth in the lower Athabasca River

Authors
Year of Publication: 2009

Abstract:
Under the Phase II framework analysis, there is an understanding that future development of resource based industries in the Athabasca River basin will put increasing pressure on instream flows as industries increase the demand for extraction of water from the river for use in the industrial process. In order to maintain instream flow needs for environmental and sociological uses, there is a need to evaluate the impact of future water extractions related to industrial build-out. The focus of this report is to evaluate the various water extraction scenarios related to industrial expansions in the basin and to determine the potential impact of these extractions to water depth with the Lower Athabasca River. By evaluating impacts on water depth, one can draw hypotheses as to whether impacts on water depth may have an associated socio-economic impact to recreational uses of the river. Base on the evaluation conducted during this investigation, it is concluded that the water management alternatives proposed in Phase II of the Athabasca River Water Management Framework will have insignificant impact on the recreational uses of the Lower Athabasca River. There are several things that could be considered as future work to gain a more in-depth understanding of recreational uses and potential impacts. To better quantify any potential impacts, a time series analysis could be conducted to verify the duration of potentially insufficient water depths. The study conducted here was a steady state analysis using only one discharge value. A time series analysis using weekly flow values could be conducted to see if the threshold flow could be identified that would lead to impass issues in some points of the river. In addition, a full length River2D model would verify the assumptions used in this study that the modeled sections are truly representative from a hydrodynamic perspective to the rest of the river. A literature review and research into the phenomena of ice formation and ice thickness related to water depth may lend some value to understanding if winter based recreational activities may be impacted. In addition, including some areas of the river that have a major tributary confluence in the River2D model may provide an understanding of the threshold at which access to the tributary becomes an issue. Access to tributaries is not solely dependent on flows in the Athabasca and therefore an understanding of flow conditions between the tributary and the Athabasca River and the phasing of those flows will need to be understood.

Citation:
[Anonymous] (2009).  Review of water management alternatives on water depth in the lower Athabasca River. (AECOM Canada Ltd., Ed.). 27 pages . Abstract
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Revisiting 1992-94 field tests of freeze thaw dewatering of oil sands MFT

Authors Proskin, S.
Year of Publication: 2012

Citation:
Proskin, S. (2012).  Revisiting 1992-94 field tests of freeze thaw dewatering of oil sands MFT. 10 pages .
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Rheological properties of Syncrude's tailings pond sludge

Authors Danielson, L. J., & MacKinnon M. D.
Year of Publication: 1990

Citation:
Danielson, L. J., & MacKinnon M. D. (1990).  Rheological properties of Syncrude's tailings pond sludge. 6(2), 22 pages .
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River2D: Two-dimensional depth averaged model of river hydrodynamics and fish habitat

Authors Steffler, P., & Blackburn J.
Year of Publication: 2002

Abstract:
There are four parts to this report: 1) Bed Topography File Editor User s Manual 2) Ice Topography File Editor User s Manual for River 2D 3) Mesh Generation Program for River 2D Two Dimensional Depth Averaged Finite Element: Introduction to Mesh Generation and User s Manual 4) Two-Dimensional Depth Averaged Model of River Hydrodynamics and Fish Habitat: Introduction to Depth Averaged Modeling and User s Manual R2D_Bed is a utility program intended for use with the River2D river modelling system. R2D_Bed is an interactive and graphical bed topography file editor. The normal modelling process would involve creating a preliminary bed topography file (text) from the raw field data, then editing and refining it using R2D_Bed. The resulting bed topography file is used in R2D_Mesh to develop a computational discretization. River2D is then used to solve for the water depths and velocities. Finally, the River2D habitat module is used to visualize and interpret the results and perform PHABSIM type fish habitat analysis. An iterative approach at various stages, including modification of the bed topography, is usual.

Citation:
Steffler, P., & Blackburn J. (2002).  River2D: Two-dimensional depth averaged model of river hydrodynamics and fish habitat. Abstract
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Role of a temperature-sensitive polymer as a process aid in oil sands processing and tailings treatment

Authors Li, H.
Year of Publication: 2007

Abstract:
A temperature-sensitive polymer, Poly N-isopropylacrylamide (poly(NIPAM)), was synthesized and used as a flocculant to treat kaolinite clay suspensions and as an aid to process low-grade oil sand ores. In the settling of clay suspensions, two procedures referred to as procedures A and B, respectively, were employed. In both procedures, the polymer was first mixed with kaolinite suspensions at room temperature. In procedure A, settling tests were carried out at room temperature, i.e., without changing the mixing temperature. In procedure B, the prepared suspensions were heated to 40°C and then settling tests were carried out at this higher temperature. The results showed that procedure B resulted in significantly higher settling rates and smaller sediment volumes. While used as an aid in a low-grade oil sand ore processing, the polymer exhibited a similar behavior in the flocculation of fine particles in the ore, i.e. by adding the polymer at room temperature but operating the bitumen extraction at 40°C, significantly higher bitumen recoveries and faster tailings settling rates were achieved.

Citation:
Li, H. (2007).  Role of a temperature-sensitive polymer as a process aid in oil sands processing and tailings treatment. 110 pages . Abstract
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Role of carbon dioxide in densification of oil sands tailings

Authors Zhu, R.
Year of Publication: 2011

Abstract:
Carbon dioxide (CO2) was shown as a promising alternative for oil sands tailings treatment with economical and environmental benefits. This thesis aims to understand the role of CO2 addition in settling and densification of oil sands tailings. In this study, CO2 was pressurized into two industrial whole tailings. The optimal initial settling rate, supernatant clarity and solids content of sediment were achieved at CO2 partial pressure of about 100 kPa. Increasing the processing temperature improved the effects of CO2 on the settling of tailings. The improvement on settling and densification of tailings by CO2 was mainly attributed to pH reduction, which led to a decrease in the value of zeta potential of the fines. On the other hand, CO2 bubbles formed by dissolved gas under super-saturation pressure caused a less clear supernatant by disturbing the formed sediments. The limit of CO2 sequestration by oil sands tailings was experimentally evaluated.

Citation:
Zhu, R. (2011).  Role of carbon dioxide in densification of oil sands tailings. 94 pages . Abstract
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Role of colloidal interactions in oil sand tailings treatment

Authors Long, J., Li H., Xu Z., & Masliyah J. H.
Year of Publication: 2006

Abstract:
To provide fundamental insights into the treatment of oil sand tailings, the forces between a clay fine or silica particle and a silica wafer in aqueous solutions were measured using an atomic force microscope. A high molecular weight, partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) was used as the flocculant. The effect of polymer dosage, solution pH, and addition of calcium and magnesium ions on the interaction and adhesion forces was studied. Tailings settling tests were carried out to link the measured forces with tailings treatment. The results showed that the addition of the polymer at low dosages or divalent ions at low concentrations resulted in adhesion interactions. The adhesion force increased with increasing polymer dosage or cation concentration until an optimum dosage or concentration was reached. Higher polymer dosage and ion concentration resulted in a weaker adhesion or even purely repulsive force profiles. The synergy of the polymer and divalent ions significantly enhanced the adhesion between fine solids. The measured adhesion forces correlated well with settling characteristics: the stronger the adhesion, the higher the initial settling rate. This study suggests a potential new technology for oil sand tailings treatment using the synergic effect of polymers and divalent cations.

Citation:
Long, J., Li H., Xu Z., & Masliyah J. H. (2006).  Role of colloidal interactions in oil sand tailings treatment. 52(1), 12 pages . Abstract
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Role of hydrophobic solids in the stability of oil sands fine tailings

Authors Majid, A., & Sparks B. D.
Year of Publication: 1996

Abstract:
Hydrophobic solids are known to occur in the fine tailings produced during bitumen extraction at both the Syncrude and Suncor oil sands plants. Removal of these solids, and associated residual bitumen, produces changed settling behaviour and subsequent dewatering of the remaining tailings. In this work a fractionation scheme has been developed that allows this hydrophobic component to be separated selectively from fine tailings. Two types of particulate solids, both having considerably higher organic carbon contents than the bulk tailings solids, have been identified. In one fraction the solids are completely hydrophobic (HPS), whereas the particles in the other fraction exhibit intermediate wetting characteristics (BWS). Each fraction represents ∼ 1.5–2 wt% of the total tailings. The solids have been characterized by particle size distribution, XPS and elemental, including heavy metal, analyses. Both fractions are capable of forming a flocculated structure by an agglomeration process involving residual bitumen and naphtha in amounts typically found in tailings ponds. Measurement of the change in sediment volume for the agglomerated fractions has been used to investigate this process. Results for both fractions show a significant increase in the final sediment volume after agglomeration. The increase in sediment volume implies the formation of a flocculated structure. Such a structure could enhance tailings stability by reinforcing the ultrafine solids gel network also present in tailings.

Citation:
Majid, A., & Sparks B. D. (1996).  Role of hydrophobic solids in the stability of oil sands fine tailings. 75(7), 5 pages . Abstract
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Role of naphthenic acid contaminants in the removal of p-xylene from synthetic produced water by MEUF

Authors Deriszadeh, A., Harding T. G., & Husein M. M.
Year of Publication: 2008

Abstract:
The high demand for water in oil sands operations in addition to the shortage of fresh water resources mandate continuous search for reliable and cost effective water treatment technologies. Micellar-enhanced ultrafiltration (MEUF) is potentially applicable to produced water treatment. MEUF is, however, susceptible to membrane plugging and back contamination, especially at high surfactant dosages. Recent investigations showed that addition of small amounts of a non-ionic surfactant to an ionic surfactant solution reduces the critical micellar concentration (CMC) of the mixed surfactant solution, and consequently reduces the surfactant dosage required to achieve certain removal of contaminants using MEUF. In the present study a naphthenic acid, octanoic acid, typically existing in produced water is shown to play a similar role as the non-ionic surfactant when added to the cationic surfactant cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC). Cross-flow MEUF using three different molecular weight cutoffs (MWCOs) of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) hollow fiber membranes was used to treat synthetic produced water containing p-xylene. The mixed CPC/octanoic acid solution removed comparable percentages of p-xylene contaminant at much lower concentrations of CPC. Decreasing CPC concentration in the feed resulted in less fouling and higher permeate flux and reduced back contamination. This, in turn, enhanced the performance of MEUF.

Citation:
Deriszadeh, A., Harding T. G., & Husein M. M. (2008).  Role of naphthenic acid contaminants in the removal of p-xylene from synthetic produced water by MEUF. 86(4), 7 pages . Abstract
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Role of ultra-fine solid fractions on rheology of oil sands suspensions

Authors Samiei, S.
Year of Publication: 2007

Abstract:

Citation:
Samiei, S. (2007).  Role of ultra-fine solid fractions on rheology of oil sands suspensions. 100 pages . Abstract
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Root distribution activity and development for boreal species on reclaimed oil sand mine soils in Alberta Canada

Authors Lazorko, H. M.
Year of Publication: 2008

Abstract:
Alberta’s oil sands are located in the boreal forest where surface mining disturbs huge tracts of land. One such area, Syncrude Canada Ltd.’s Mildred Lake mine, contains waste overburden (OB) piles which can be saline and sodic (SSOB). The objectives of this research were to 1) determine SSOB material impacts on planted tree root distributions, 2) quantify root activity to identify plant species growing at depth, and 3) document coarse woody root structure for planted trees. Root distributions for three mixedwood stands on reclaimed OB in relation to electrical conductivity (EC) and sodium absorption ratio (SAR) were examined using soil cores. Root distributions followed a similar pattern with soil depth as those from undisturbed boreal forest stands and appeared unaffected by the SSOB at this stage; however, future monitoring will be required as the stands mature. Root activity was assessed for jack pine (jP) and white spruce (wS) stands on tailings sand (TS) and OB using a strontium (Sr) chloride tracer. Understory and tree foliage was collected prior to and after application to measure Sr concentration in the control, broadcast, and depth treatments. A small proportion of roots grew in the OB material regardless of its chemical properties. Results from the Sr tracer study suggested that these roots were probably from the clover, sow thistle, and grasses. Planted trees showed little to no change in Sr tissue content suggesting that there were little to no roots in the treatment zones, the understory species out-competed the trees for Sr accessibility, or the tracer was diluted in the tree biomass to undetectable levels. Root systems of planted jP trees older than 10 years and older than 20 years on TS and OB were excavated and the number and diameter of lateral roots, the degree of kinking and coiling, and the presence of a taproot were recorded. Excavated trees showed poor taproot development on 70% of the trees and numerous root deformities, suggesting that more emphasis is needed in correct planting techniques and good planting stock to ensure proper root development. Roots are critical components of boreal forest ecosystems; without healthy root systems productivity may decline, stands may be susceptible to windthrow, and general forest health may suffer.

Citation:
Lazorko, H. M. (2008).  Root distribution activity and development for boreal species on reclaimed oil sand mine soils in Alberta Canada. 160 pages . Abstract
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Root distributions of planted boreal mixedwood species on reclaimed saline-sodic overburden

Authors Lazorko, H., & Van Rees K. C. J.
Year of Publication: 2012

Abstract:
Alberta’s oil sands are located in the boreal forest where surface mining requires reconstruction of these landscapes using waste saline and sodic overburden (SSOB) piles. The impact of these SSOB materials, however, on root development of planted boreal species is unknown. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of SSOB material on the root distributions of planted boreal species. Root distributions for planted mixedwood stands were measured using soil cores and compared with soil physical and chemical properties on three reclaimed sites. Soil pH ranged from 6.1 to 7.5 across all three reclaimed sites. Sodium adsorption ratio ranged from <30 in the SSOB at the youngest site to <4 at the oldest site while soil electrical conductivity ranged from <12 and <4 dS m−1 in the SSOB at the youngest and oldest site, respectively. Root length distributions were concentrated in the upper 30 cm of the soil profile and ranged from 0.96 to 7.99 cm cm−3. The roots were observed in the SSOB and accounted for 1.3% to 2.2% of the total root length in the profile. The root length density was also negatively correlated with Na and EC at all sites. The root distributions on these young reclaimed sites were similar to those from undisturbed boreal forest stands overlying saline soils, suggesting that root distributions on these reclaimed sites appear to be unaffected by the SSOB; however, further monitoring will be required as the stand matures to determine future impacts of the SSOB on forest productivity.

Citation:
Lazorko, H., & Van Rees K. C. J. (2012).  Root distributions of planted boreal mixedwood species on reclaimed saline-sodic overburden. 223(1), 16 pages. Abstract
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Routines dominant logic and market dynamism: Reconfiguration challenges in Alberta's oil sands

Authors van der Byl, C.
Year of Publication: 2013

Abstract:
Energy companies must adapt to a rapidly changing and, at times, unpredictable business context. In response, some companies are looking inside their organizations to capabilities that can be reconfigured to capitalize on opportunities that will improve their economic and environmental performance. I use the dynamic capabilities framework to conduct a variance study examining challenges to reconfiguring capabilities for new technology adoption in Alberta’s oil sands. I find that a lack of formalized routines and deliberate planning associated with an entrepreneurial dominant logic are antecedents to negative reconfiguration outcomes. Informal routines are difficult to transfer and result in a ‘non transfer’ of capabilities in reconfiguration. In addition, fast paced planning can lead to a negative transfer where existing capabilities are not applicable to the new opportunity. I further find that a high velocity market intensified by the unpredictability of the natural system moderate the impact of an entrepreneurial dominant logic in reconfiguration. By explicating the micro foundations of a dynamic capability for reconfiguration, I provide insights into the tension between sensing and seizing opportunities in an entrepreneurial, incumbent firm and capability reconfiguration. I diverge from the extant literature by considering an entrepreneurial, fast paced response to external opportunity rather than one constrained by inertia and core rigidities. Data for this study is generated from 71 interviews conducted through an in-depth case study stemming from a creative sentence order connected to environmental noncompliance at Suncor Energy, Canada’s largest integrated energy company.

Citation:
van der Byl, C. (2013).  Routines dominant logic and market dynamism: Reconfiguration challenges in Alberta's oil sands. 225 pages . Abstract
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Royalty reform solutions: Options for delivering a fair share of oil sands revenues to Albertans and resource developers

Authors Taylor, A.
Year of Publication: 2007

Abstract:
The Alberta government established the current oil sands royalty regime in 1997 with the aim of accelerating oil sands developments beyond 1 million barrels per day by the year 2020.2 The terms were set to explicitly favour investors and support a fledgling industry. Ten years later, however, economic conditions have change significantly: oil sands extraction and upgrading technologies have matured, and current and projected oil prices have increased substantially. The price of bitumen (the raw product from oil sands) has increased 256%. Not surprisingly, capital investments in oils sands projects are soaring in response. Since 1997, capital investments have increased more than 400% and oil production has increased 130%. In fact, the current royalty regime has already exceeded its own objectives for spurring development: production surpassed 1 million barrels per day in 2004, 16 years ahead of schedule. Oil sands production is now forecast to reach 3.5 million barrels per day by 2015 and 4.0 million barrels per day by 2020, accounting for more than 80% of Canadian oil production.4 In spite of radically improved economic conditions for oil sands developments, the provincial government has maintained the same low royalty rates introduced in 1997. Now royalties from oil sands production are expected to decline.5 The provincial government’s budget, released on April 19, 2007, predicts a decline in oil sands revenues over the next three years. Looking further ahead, the Alberta Department of Energy estimates that oil sands royalty revenue will be the same in 2020 as it was in 2004/2005 — despite a tripling of production over that time period. The royalty regime, which is now seriously outdated, is costing Albertans billions of dollars in lost resource revenues. The citizens of Alberta need to start thinking like owners and insist that their manager, the Government of Alberta, gets a better deal for them from the development of their resource.

Citation:
Taylor, A. (2007).  Royalty reform solutions: Options for delivering a fair share of oil sands revenues to Albertans and resource developers. 23 pages . Abstract
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