Our laboratories are responsible for significant technological advancements across multiple industries.

COMBUSTION/COAL

Combustion-related laboratory work includes examining ash deposition behavior, mechanisms of strength development, and surface reactions, all at elevated temperatures under combustion atmospheres. Because of the abundance of the U.S. domestic coal resource coupled with the current utilization rate, we are investigating rare earth elements to determine economic potential, detection limits in brines, and viable extraction techniques. Research and development work on coal by-products has resulted in several applications, including mineral wool, cement replacement, high-flexural-strength ceramics, sulfur concrete, high-heat-capacity brick, soil and road subbase stabilization, controlled low-strength materials, and ash liner materials.

PETROLEUM

Within the petroleum industry, we are a recognized leader in the utilization of CO2 for enhanced oil recovery and storage in the deep subsurface. Advancements in our understanding of fluid mobilization and containment are investigated in our laboratories using petrographic, petrophysical, geochemical, and geomechanical techniques.

OIL & GAS

We are conducting focused laboratory investigations to improve oil recovery from tight, unconventional oil reservoirs, such as the Bakken Formation. We use scanning electron microscopy coupled with digital image analysis to develop improved reservoir characterization methods. Additional laboratory work is focused on the extraction mechanisms and efficiency of producing oil using CO2 and blends of produced gas that are currently being vented to the atmosphere. We have developed invaluable tools for planning enhanced oil recovery operations in conventional and unconventional reservoirs.