DNA Diagnostics Workflow
Converting subsurface microbes into easy to consume data.
Samples
Rock Sample
Our proprietary process for extracting DNA from low biomass samples is utilized to create the baseline for all zones of interest. We can extract microbial DNA from either wet well cuttings or core samples, and our process works well with either oil-based or water-based mud systems.
Fluid Samples
Fluid samples are collected at the first access point at the surface, typically the wellhead or the separator. Depending upon which Biota answer products are desired, samples of frac fluids or injected fluids may also be included in the collection and analysis process.
DNA Stratigraphy Log
The baseline reference for fluid to rock analyses
QA/QC Information
Stringent process controls and associated QA/QC information build the foundation for repeatable and reliable analysis. Key parameters evaluated and provided include Biomass and Subsurface Signal Strength vs Background Signal Strength.
Analysis foundation
Tracking of fluid origin and fluid movement finally is enabled by determining unique DNA markers and their relative abundance at any given sampling depth and calibration with formation tops and petrophysical logs to relate depths to known geologic intervals.
Total Fluid Log (TFL)
Tracking the origin of produced fluids
DNA markers and their respective abundances in various fluid samples are, using proprietary data science methods, compared with the previously obtained DNA Stratigraphy to provide probabilistic total fluid (water+oil) contributions from the sampled formations. This analysis can indicate contributions from either above or below the well’s landing zone.
Fluid-Fluid Analysis (FFA)
Understanding well-well connectivity
Fluid-Fluid Analysis is the primary analysis employed to determine whether there is or is not connectivity between wellbores, and by extension, whether they both produce from the same rock volume.
Principle Coordinate Analysis (PCOA) is the underlying data science approach for comparison of multiple produced fluid samples.
