Oilfield operations often leave behind a difficult challenge: drilling waste contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons. These pollutants are toxic to soil, water, plants, and even human health. Traditional cleanup methods can be costly and harmful to the environment—but Retaj Oilfield Services is proving there’s a smarter way forward.

Harnessing the Power of Microorganisms

Bioremediation is the process of using microorganisms to break down oil pollutants into harmless substances like water, carbon dioxide, and simple minerals. Instead of adding more chemicals to an already polluted environment, Retaj works with nature to restore balance.

Through extensive research and field testing, Retaj scientists isolated eight strains of indigenous bacteria from oil-contaminated soils. These include species of Bacillus and Pseudomonas—microbes known for their resilience and ability to consume petroleum hydrocarbons. Each strain was registered in GenBank, the world’s largest genetic sequence database, marking a major milestone in regional oilfield biotechnology.

At retaj , we believe oilfield progress and and environmental protection can go hand in hand. By pioneering microbial solutions for drilling waste management , we are shaping a cleaner , safer future for global industry 

Why Local Bacteria Matter

Introducing non-native microbes into an oilfield environment can be unpredictable and risky. Retaj’s approach focuses on indigenous strains that are naturally adapted to Iraq’s oil-rich soils. These bacteria thrive in harsh conditions:

  • High salinity

  • Alkaline pH levels (≥10)

  • Extreme temperatures

  • High petroleum hydrocarbon concentrations (TPH > 20,000 ppm)

By using resilient local bacteria, Retaj ensures sustainable treatment without disrupting the ecosystem.

Innovation with Sugarcane Bagasse

To accelerate the process, Retaj combines microbial treatments with sugarcane bagasse—a fibrous byproduct of sugar production. Bagasse provides an ideal growth substrate for the bacteria, offering carbon and nitrogen that enhance biodegradation. This innovative use of agricultural waste not only boosts efficiency but also keeps costs low.

Real Results, Proven in the Field

In field trials, Retaj’s bioremediation technology significantly reduced petroleum hydrocarbon levels in contaminated drilling waste. Over a 10-week treatment period, soils showed visible transformation, with TPH levels dropping to environmentally acceptable limits.

These results demonstrate that green technology is not just theory—it works on the ground. Retaj’s science-driven approach is helping transform polluted oilfield sites into land that can be safely reused.