Experimental Investigation of Nanosilica Gel Properties for Well Integrity Remediation

Abstract

This study investigates the role of clay mineral, polyacrylamide additive, and nanosilica solution in the creation of a cross-linked gel for well cement repair. Several experimental setups were developed using a rotational viscometer and an Anton rheometer to investigate the impact of nanosilica particles on the rheology and performance prediction of the sealing gel. The results of varying the nanosilica concentration revealed that silica solution with a concentration of 15−25 wt % produced a lower gel strength property over a suitable gelation period, whereas silica solution with a concentration of 30−40 wt % displayed a higher gel strength property but with a short gelation time. The findings also demonstrated that adding 0.15 wt % polyacrylamide (PAM) to 18 wt % nanosilica significantly enhanced the properties of the gel, increasing about 135% in the gel strength, 429% in the yield point, and 122% in the storage modulus without posing any operational issues. The gelation of the nanosilica solution in the downhole environment, on the other hand, was shown to be greatly improved by the clay mineral bentonite, which was present in the formation rock. This research's findings have improved the oil and gas industry's understanding of the materials that might be used to improve a sealing gel's rheological properties for well integrity operations.

Using a Catenary Trajectory to Reduce Wellbore Friction in Horizontal Extended Reach Drilling

“…There are many new existing technologies in the campaign to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as hydrogen, renewable energy, etc. While increasing the efficiency of existing oil wells by enhanced oil recovery ( Carrera et al, 2023) and maintaining the condition of the wells (Olayiwola et al, 2022a;Nguyen et al, 2022;Mahmood et al, 2023;Olayiwola et al, 2022b), extended reach drilling activities also play an essential role in making energy transition become smoother by meeting oil &gas global demand. One of the innovative methods in drilling technology is using a Catenary Trajectory.…”

Investigation of Nano-Silica Solution Flow through Cement Cracks

“…Yekeen et al [5] presented a comprehensive review of NPs applications for hydraulic fracturing of unconventional reservoirs. NPs have recently been considered for sealing flow channels and cracks in wellbore cement sheath [6][7][8].…”