Combine effect of graphene oxide, pure-bore and sodium alginate on rheological and filtration properties and cutting carrying capacity of water-based drilling fluid

For a successful drilling operation, rheological and filtration properties are the most essential parameters to monitor. Rheological properties in desire operating range help the drilling fluid system to suspend and carry the cutting up to the surface. On the other hand, prevention of the filtrate volume loss is crucial particularly in formations that are hydrophilic in nature and has tendency to swell. The main purpose of this study is to investigate experimentally, the combine influence of graphene oxide (GO), pure-bore (PB) and sodium alginate on rheological and filtration properties of water-based drilling fluid (WBDF). A total of eight samples were prepared excluding the based mud system. Particles of GO and PB were divided into two concentrations of 0.35 g and 1.75 g, while for sodium alginate 0.25 g and 2.25 g concentration was used. Laboratory measurements on viscometer for rheological properties, and API filter press for filtration loss were conducted. The results obtained reveal that all the samples demonstrated shear thinning behavior. This behavior was also validated by the dynamic viscosity results, where decrease in viscosity was observed with increase in shear rate. Out of all the samples, Sample 5 shows maximum dynamic viscosity as this sample comprises of maximum concentration of the particles. Rheological properties particularly yield point and apparent viscosity for Samples 1 and 5 were not in the desired operating range. Both of these samples comprise of maximum weight percent of pure-bore and sodium alginate. In addition, Samples 2, 4 and 6 demonstrate a weaker mud system with normalized cutting carrying index values below 1. Sample 6 comprises of smaller concentrations of all the three particles while Samples 2 and 4 consist of maximum concentration of graphene oxide, which results in agglomeration of this particle and decreases the efficacy of these mud systems. The result indicates that for a successful drilling fluid system, the concentration of these particles should be the prime concern. Failure to do so will result in degradation in the performance of the fluid system.

Automated summary

Rheological and filtration properties are crucial for a successful drilling operation. This study investigates the combined influence of graphene oxide, pure-bore, and sodium alginate on the rheological and filtration properties of water-based drilling fluid. The results highlight the importance of particle concentration for the performance of the drilling fluid system.