Development of Multiple Crosslinked Polymers and Its Application in Synthetic-Based Drilling Fluids

Abstract

This study addresses the performance challenges of Synthetic-Based Drilling Fluids (SBDF) in deep wells and high-temperature environments by engineering a novel multiple hydrogen-bonded crosslinked polymer, MBAH/nano-SiO2. Synthesized using methyl methacrylate (MMA), butyl methacrylate (BMA), acrylic acid (AA), N-hydroxyethyl acrylamide (HEAA), and nano-silica (nano-SiO2), the polymer improved crosslinking density, thermal properties, particle size distribution, and colloidal stability. The development of a ‘weak gel’ structure in W/O emulsions improved rheology and electrical stability (ES), with ES values reaching up to 775 V after aging at 180 °C. Moreover, the polymer’s amphiphilic structure and the synergistic effect of nano-SiO2 increased emulsion film thickness and strength, further augmenting stability. The high-temperature and high-pressure filtration loss of SBDF was considerably reduced to 7.6 mL, benefiting well wall stability and reservoir damage control. This study provides crucial insights into optimizing multiple hydrogen-bonded crosslinked strategies and polymers in SBDF applications.

Nanobiocatalyst Based on Enzyme Immobilization for Mudcake Removal and Reservoir Damage Control

“…4 The mudcake helps to prevent further intrusion of filtrate and solid particles into the reservoirs and effectively improves wellbore stability and reservoir damage. 5 However, after drilling operations are completed, mudcake can become a well production killer by plugging hydrocarbon channels and reducing reservoir permeability. 6 Therefore, for natural reservoir and hydrocarbon production recovery, timely removal of drilling fluid mudcake and reservoir plugs is critical when entering the production stage.…”

“…The drilling operation is typically the primary cause of reservoir damage, so appropriate drilling fluids are selected to create a low-permeability sedimentary layer (mudcake) on the well wall . The mudcake helps to prevent further intrusion of filtrate and solid particles into the reservoirs and effectively improves wellbore stability and reservoir damage . However, after drilling operations are completed, mudcake can become a well production killer by plugging hydrocarbon channels and reducing reservoir permeability .…”