Abstract: A method for reducing the salinity, as well as the hydrocarbon concentration of produced water to levels sufficient to meet surface water discharge standards. Pressure vessel and coflow injection technology developed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory is used to mix produced water and a gas hydrate forming fluid to form a solid or semi-solid gas hydrate mixture. Salts and solids are excluded from the water that becomes a part of the hydrate cage. A three-step process of dissociation of the hydrate results in purified water suitable for irrigation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an exothermic cutting electrode. The electrode includes an outer hollow conductor, an inner conductor disposed inside the and outer hollow conductor. The inner conductor is configured so as to form the boundaries of two chambers and configured to form a third chamber between the outer hollow conductor and an inner conductor. The three chambers are of substantially equal cross-sectional size whereby even gas flow is proudced and even consumption of the electrode is provided.