TETRA Technologies Unveils Innovative Desalination Solution for Water Management Challenges

TETRA Technologies Launches Oasis TDS: Revolutionizing Water Management

TETRA Technologies, Inc. has made significant strides in water treatment with the launch of its new product, TETRA Oasis TDS. This innovative technology is tailored to effectively treat and desalinate water derived from oil and gas well production. The Oasis TDS system is designed for a range of applications, including beneficial re-use and mineral extraction, marking a pivotal advancement in the management of produced water.

Results from the Delaware Basin Pilot Program

Recently, TETRA completed a successful pilot project in the Delaware Basin, collaborating with a major oil and gas operator to demonstrate the potential of Oasis TDS. The outcome of this pilot was promising, as the desalinated water was subjected to rigorous testing against Texas Railroad Commission (TRRC) standards, both in-house at TETRA and through external laboratories. The results were reassuring, with all tested samples passing the Whole Effluent Toxicity (WET) tests, indicating no adverse effects on aquatic organisms.

The Importance of WET Testing

WET testing plays a crucial role in ensuring water quality standards under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). This testing measures the combined toxic effects of pollutants in treated water, as organisms are observed for any negative health impacts. The successful completion of these tests is vital for future permitting in beneficial re-use projects, positioning TETRA Oasis TDS as a frontrunner in compliance with environmental regulations.

Comments from Leadership

Brady Murphy, President and CEO of TETRA, expressed pride in the achievements to date, stating, “We have been systematically addressing the industry challenges around produced water for re-use purposes. The Oasis TDS embodies our commitment to leveraging our expertise to create effective and cost-efficient solutions.” The pilot program showcased TETRA's capability to recover 92% of water, achieving total dissolved solids (TDS) ranging from 40 to 200 parts per million, which surpasses typical municipal drinking water standards.

Industry Context

Despite a downturn in U.S. oil and gas operations throughout 2024, the volume of produced water is on the rise. Rystad Energy estimates that the Permian Basin produced over 8.3 billion barrels of water in 2024—5% more than in the previous year. The report also highlights that if regulatory restrictions reduce disposal well capacities by 20%, it could lead to a massive market opportunity for beneficial re-use of up to 4 million barrels of produced water per day. TETRA is preparing to tap into this potential, with the market for handling and treating produced water in the Permian Basin valued at approximately $4 billion annually.

A Comprehensive Approach

The TETRA Oasis TDS is an all-inclusive solution, beginning with produced water as the feed for pre-treatment. Over six years, TETRA has honed its expertise and capabilities in producing recycled water for hydraulic fracturing applications. The process employs cutting-edge membrane technologies, specifically the KMX Vacuum Membrane Distillation (VMD) and Hyrec Osmotically Assisted Reverse Osmosis (OARO), chosen based on the water's properties and specific cost considerations.

The treatment culminates in a post-treatment stage that not only meets customer specifications but also explores mineral extraction opportunities, enhancing economic viability. TETRA's commitment to delivering superior water quality for various applications, including surface irrigation and industrial uses, sets the stage for a transformative impact in environmental practices.

Looking Ahead

Armed with a greater understanding of produced water treatment and a commitment to innovation, TETRA Technologies is well-positioned to lead the charge in sustainable water management solutions. As they continue to engage high-quality customers and enter strategic negotiations, the future of water treatment technology appears promising and set to expand the horizons of environmental stewardship in the oil and gas industry. For further details about TETRA's Oasis TDS, explore their dedicated web page here.