Produced Water Treatment: A Bibliometric Review of Strategies and Technologies

Abstract

Produced Water (PW) contains chemical compounds and heavy metals that make it toxic and harmful to ecosystems and human health. The inadequate disposal of this byproduct, which is the largest in the oil industry, can pollute water bodies, impact biodiversity, and harm communities that depend on water for consumption and agriculture. This work analyzed the most widely used technologies and strategies for PW treatment. The bibliometric research was based on the Web of Science platform. It mapped the main approaches in the last five years, identifying three essential groups of treatment: physical, chemical, and biological, with increasing interest in the latter. The study emphasizes the importance of enhancing PW management to mitigate environmental impacts and promote more sustainable solutions.