A method for neutralizing brines that contain high levels of silica
accompanied with a high pH. Brine is processed through a reactor in which
the pH is lowered and the resultant silica precipitate is adsorbed onto a
sacrificial crystal structure. The resultant stream is then processed
through a solids removal zone wherein the solids are removed and
recovered for reuse. The neutralized solids-free brine is then suitable
for down-hole injection in the heavy oil industry or further treatment by
common water treatment methods if further adjustment is required for
other industries.