What is partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (PHPA)?

Partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (PHPA) is a widely used polymer in the oil and gas industry due to its lesser cost and good water solubility. PHPA is used as a functional additive in water-based drilling fluids. The PHPA mud system stabilizes shale formations and influences cuttings and wellbore stability.

What does partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide mean?

What Does Partially Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide Mean? Partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (PHPA) is a widely used polymer in the oil and gas industry due to its lesser cost and good water solubility. PHPA is used as a functional additive in water-based drilling fluids.

Can PHPA polymer be used as Vis-cosifier in drilling mud?

These studies suggest that PHPA polymer can be applied as vis- cosifier in drilling mud at and below 120°C. But the high value of fluid loss indicates that PHPA polymer requires fluid loss additive for successful application.

Is PHPA a water soluble polymer?

PHPA is a co-polymer of anionic character and high molecular weight. It is a water-soluble polymer, which is primarily used as a highly efficient fluid loss reducer, Viscosifier and protective colloid for shale’s and cutting in fresh water, calcium, sodium brines and KCL mud systems.

What is the use of polyacrylamide in oil drilling?

For oil drilling, liquid or powder partially-hydrolyzed polyacrylamide is used as additives to water based drilling mud to provide a lubricating film and reduce friction at the drill bit, impart stability to shale and clay and increase viscosity [ 1, 22, 26 ].

What is the difference between PHPA and acrylamide polymer?

PHPA polymer has the ability to remove drilled logs from the well wall and prevent drilling rigs from dissolving in drilling fluid and over-sealing them. This is its main feature. Acrylamide polymer, on the other hand, is supplied and used in both solid and liquid states.