TITLE:
Optimization of DNA Staining Technology for Development of Autonomous Microbe Sensor for Injection Seawater Systems
AUTHORS:
Mohammed A. Al-Moniee, Xiangyang Zhu, Lone Tang, Susanne Juhler, Fuad I. Nuwaiser, Peter F. Sanders, Fahad N. Al-Abeedi
KEYWORDS:
DNA Staining, Fluorescence Detection, Automated Monitoring, Real-Time Detection, Microbial Sensor Prototype, Injection Water
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Sensor Technology,
Vol.6 No.3,
August
11,
2016
ABSTRACT: Microbial activity in the water injection system in oil and gas industry leads to an
array of challenges, including biofouling, injectivity loss, reservoir plugging, and microbiologically
influenced corrosion (MIC). An effective mitigation strategy requires
online and real-time monitoring of microbial activity and growth in the system so
that the operators can apply and adjust counter-measures quickly and properly. The
previous study [1] identified DNA staining technology-with PicoGreen and SYBR
Green dyes—as a very promising method for automated, online determination of
microbial cell abundance in the vast Saudi Aramco injection seawater systems. This
study evaluated DNA staining technology on detection limit, automation potential,
and temperature stability for the construction of automated sensor prototype. DNA
staining with SYBR Green dye was determined to be better suited for online and
real-time monitoring of microbial activity in the Saudi Aramco seawater systems.
SYBR Green staining does not require sample pre-treatment, and the fluorescence
signal intensity is more stable at elevated temperatures up to 30℃. The lower detection
limit of 2 × 103/ml was achieved under the optimized conditions, which is sufficient
to detect microbial numbers in Saudi Aramco injection seawater. Finally, the
requirements for design and construction of SYBR-based automated sensor prototype
were determined.