Investigating The Fate and Biodegradation of Resin and Asphaltenes in water

Abstract

Alberta is known for having one of the largest oil and natural gas reserves in Canada, making it a large industry. CanmetENERGY Devon is a federal government research centre that focuses on innovative solutions to reduce the environmental impacts made by the oil and gas industry. As part of the Chemistry Internship Practicum (CHEM 497), from Jan 2023-April 2023, I interned at CanmetENERGY Devon. In this presentation, I will highlight my internship work on investigating the fate and biodegradation of resin and asphaltenes in water. I will highlight the work done on initial testing and preparation of samples as well as method development. Initial testing includes DNA extractions from soil samples, microbial analysis, and testing water samples for different compounds. Developing methods to carry out these tests involved a lot of repetition which allowed me to gain further experience with GLP and reproducibility. As well as learn how to use new instruments and articulate the methods that were developed and present them. My internship journey will be presented.

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Samuel Mugo