Tad Patzek
Dr. Tad Patzek is chairman of the Department of Petroleum & Geosystems Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin. He earned his Ph.D. in chemical engineering from the Silesian Technical University, Poland in 1980. He joined the faculty of The University of Texas at Austin in 2008. Dr. Patzek's research involves mathematical modeling of earth systems with emphasis on multiphase fluid flow physics and rock mechanics. He is also working on smart, process-based control of very large waterfloods in unconventional, low-permeability formations, and on the mechanics of hydrate-bearing sediments. In a broader context, Patzek works on the thermodynamics and ecology of human survival and energy supply schemes for humanity. He has participated in the global debate on energy supply schemes by giving hundreds of press interviews and appearing on the BBC, PBS, CBS, CNBC, ABC, NPR, etc., and giving invited lectures around the world.
Posts about Tad Patzek
After reaching the highest possible levels of oil production, known as peak oil, experts say a combination of geological, technological and economic factors will cause the production rate to slow. According to some experts, technological innovations mean peak oil won’t become a reality anytime soon. But other experts say we are already past the peak — and the issue of slowing oil production is a problem we can’t innovate our way out of.
Environmental policy decisions based on flawed coal and oil production estimates could lead to expensive solutions for controlling CO2 emissions.
