GSP to evaluate Grafysorber to remove hydrocarbons from contaminated water

Directa Plus has partnered with Romanian energy firm GSP to evaluate the use of its graphene-based Grafysorber product in the removal of hydrocarbons from contaminated water emanating from oil and gas operations.

As part of the collaboration, the companies have signed a letter of intent (LoI) to conduct field trials with a view to entering into a commercial agreement during the first half of next year.

Pursuant to the LoI, GSP will begin on-field trials early next year in a bid to explore multiple applications for Grafysorber across its spectrum of activities in the oil and gas industry, including offshore drilling and construction, shipping, engineering, aviation, onshore facilities, logistics and catering.

The trails will test the absorbent capabilities of the product in decontaminating hydrocarbons from seawater.

Directa Plus CEO Giulio Cesareo said: “GSP SA owns ships, offshore platforms and oil fields that represent several interesting application areas with high potential for Grafysorber to be successfully used.

“This is another great opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of Grafysorber in the field.”

Grafysorber’s 3D structure is made using graphene sheets and acts as a sponge to capture the hydrocarbons that contaminate the water.

The company noted that the product is designed to absorb more than 100 times its own weight of oily pollutant.

GSP president and CEO Gabriel Valentin Comanescu said: “Ever since our company’s establishment, one of our main focuses has been to conduct our business in an environmentally responsible manner.

“That is why we are continuously looking to find the most innovative and effective solutions and to integrate them into our activities in the oil and gas industry.”