Elucidating the flow of underground reservoirs is critical to the development of efficient geothermal/hydrocarbon energy recovery. For this effort, we have investigated the use of a molecular ligand-based system that possess select solubilities in water or hydrocarbon and can survive the harsh reservoir conditions found naturally underground. Additionally, these compounds must have enhanced sensitivity to detection by standard spectroscopic characterization such as FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. Derivatives of salen (and subsequent derivatives) have proven to be ideal ‘tracers’ that can be synthesized rapidly, in high yield, and easily bind to a variety of metals. For this effort we have isolated a number of alkaline earth [(solv)nM(salenR-R’)] M = Mg, Ca] where R = H or Ph, R’ = H, But. In addition, a series of transition metal derivatives (M = Sc, Ti, V, Co, Ni, Zn) and main group metal M = Al, Ga, Ge were isolated as [LnM(salenR-R’)]). In conjunction with experiments, molecular dynamic (MD) simulations were conducted to evaluate the adsorption and diffusion of representative moieties with natural surfaces to provide atomistic insight at the interface. Details of the synthesis, characterization, retention of the metal under underground conditions, and intercalation into proppants will be presented.

Development of molecular underground chemical tracers: Coordination chemistry of alkaline earth and transition metal salen-derivative precursors

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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