Carbon Dioxide Capture under Low-Pressure Low-Temperature Conditions Using Shaped Recycled Fly Ash Particles

Proppants are essential components in hydraulic fracturing for reservoir stimulation, ensuring that fractures maintain conductivity. In high-pressure or harsh environments, high-strength, durable proppants are typically used. However, these proppants are expensive and require costly fracture fluids. This research focuses on developing a new type of proppant that is ultra lightweight, durabile, resistant to corrosion and erosion, and economical. Fly ash, a by-product of various combustion processes, particularly from coal plants, was used to create this new proppant. Fly ash-based proppant formulated is durable, environmentally friendly, buoyant, and cost-effective. To develop the fly ash-based proppant, an alkaline solution was used as an activator and binder. The proppant samples were tested under high temperature and pressure, as well as in acidic, alkaline, saline, and crude oil environments to evaluate their durability. Density was also assessed to determine the buoyancy of the proppant, which affects the fracturing fluid selection. The mix designs included weight ratios of 20%, 22%, and 25% binder, with a fixed 25% water content in all mix designs. After environmental testing, the B20W25 mix design demonstrated satisfactory results across all tests, showing minor erosion and deterioration. Conversely, the B25W25 mix did not withstand the more aggressive environmental conditions and had lower-than-required compressive strength. The density of the three mix designs ranged from 1.33 to 1.35 g/cm3, being categorized as ultra lightweight proppants, making them lighter than sand and thus highly buoyant.

Harsh Environmental Effects on Low Density Fly Ash Proppants

Haydar,

Fakher

2024

Investigating Asphaltene Damage Reduction in Wellbores, and Pipelines Using Alkaline and Surfactant Chemical Agents

Elsayed,

Fakher

2024

The oil and gas industry faces significant challenges due to asphaltene deposition, which can impede hydrocarbon flow and cause operational difficulties in wellbores and pipelines. This research investigates the efficacy of alkaline and surfactant chemical agents in reducing asphaltene damage. Experimental studies using various chemicals such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), heptane, xylene, water, and sodium bicarbonate reveal that the chemical agents’ effectiveness varies with concentration, offering insights into optimized strategies for managing asphaltene deposition. The findings contribute to developing more sustainable and effective solutions for the oil and gas industry.

Development and Optimization of Epoxy-Resin Based Cement Reinforced with Low-Cost Fly Ash for High Durability Environmentally Friendly Cement

Salib,

Fakher

2024

This research investigates the development of a novel, high-performance cement composite to address the limitations of traditional cement, including its environmental impact and durability issues. The study focuses on the incorporation of epoxy resin and fly ash to enhance the mechanical properties, durability, and sustainability of cement-based materials. A comprehensive experimental program was conducted to evaluate the effects of varying epoxy resin and fly ash dosages on the composite's properties. Results indicate that the incorporation of epoxy resin and fly ash significantly improves the composite's performance, including enhanced mechanical strength, increased resistance to acid and alkaline environments, and improved durability. The findings demonstrate the potential of this novel cement composite to offer a sustainable and high-performance alternative to traditional cement for construction applications