Can polyacrylamide/clay nanocomposite be used as drilling fluid additive?

The troublesome shale formations need special formulation of drilling fluids having high shale inhibition characteristics to mitigate wellbore instability problems. In the present study, polyacrylamide/clay nanocomposite (PANC) was synthesized and used as drilling fluid additive.

What is drilling mud?

4.1. Background and properties of drilling fluid Drilling fluid, also commonly known as drilling mud, is a specialized fluid used primarily in petroleum drilling activities. It was first employed in 1913 as a subsurface pressure control medium.

Does formulated drilling mud improve rheological properties?

The rheological properties of formulated drilling muds were studied systematically at variant high temperatures (180–220 °C). The experimental results demonstrated that MCS outperforms conventional mud additives in enhancing the rheological characteristics and fluid loss control of WBDFs under high temperatures.

What are the different types of drilling fluid additives?

Common additives include weighting agents, rheology modifiers , lost circulation additives , filtration reducers , shale stabilizers , and alkalinity controllers . Nowadays, most drilling fluid additives are petroleum-derived polymers.

Can modified natural polymers be used in water-based drilling fluids?

The application of modified natural polymers in water-based drilling fluids represents a transformative advancement, enhancing both operational efficiency and sustainability in the oil and gas industry.

Are drilling fluid additives sustainable?

Nowadays, most drilling fluid additives are petroleum-derived polymers. These polymers exhibit superior thickening capacity, filtration-reducing ability, and thermal resistance, which are advantageous in drilling operations . However, their use poses significant challenges concerning environmental impact and sustainability.