New applications for enzymes in oil and gas production

Enzymes have been previously used as gel breakers. In these applications, the enzyme removes a chemical which is no longer required, such as biopolymers in filter cakes after drilling or in frac gels after the frac has occurred. Enzymes are now used to produce useful oilfield chemicals in-situ for acidizing, sand consolidation and water shutoff applications. Enzyme-based processes for generating other useful oil-field chemicals, including minerals, gels and resins, are being developed, and these applications are discussed.