Application of Glass Reinforced Epoxy Material in Critical Sour Environment

Abstract Glass Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) materials are widely used in various applications and environments across the oil and gas industry. One of the common applications of this material is the underground drain piping system of oil and gas facilities. Similar to other types of materials, GREs are imposing some limitations especially when used in high critical sour environments. This includes the qualification of GRE material in environment that have H2S mole fraction as high as 23.51 mol% in which further lab testing is required to understand the behavior of the material and the possibility of degradation. This paper addresses the lab testing that has been carried out for the purpose to qualify the GRE material in a specific underground drain piping conditions where the H2S mole fraction is the main driver. The paper summarizes the test results and findings that were associated with the experimental procedure and the specific details highlighted in the testing guidelines.