MWCNT and SiO2 Nanoparticle Enhanced Drilling Fluid Formulation and Characterization: Experimental and Simulation studies

Abstract

In recent years the application of nanotechnology has shown impressive results in improving the performance of drilling fluid, enhanced oil recovery and in cement. However, the research and development based on nanotechnology in the oil industry are at its early stage. This indicates a huge research and development potential of nanotechnology in this field as well as application of this advance systems in industry. In this thesis the effects of single (MWCNT, SiO2) and the composite (MWCNT-SiO2) nanoparticles on Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and Xanthan gum (XG) based reference drilling fluids were tested. Based on the considered laboratory drilling fluids and the nanoparticle concentration, the overall results summarized as:  0.38wt. % MWCNT nanoparticle reduced the friction coefficient of XG-base drilling fluid by 50%.  0.0095wt. % SiO2 nanoparticle reduced the friction coefficient of XG-base drilling fluid by 25%.  0.37wt. % SiO2 - 0.0095wt % MWCNT composite reduced the coefficient of friction of CMC base drilling fluid by 38%  MWCNT and Silica nanoparticles increased the measured filtrate loss.  Nanoparticle additives did not show a significant impact on plastic viscosity.  The single MWCNT and Silica nanoparticles increased yield stress of base drilling fluid.  Reduction of coefficient of friction reduced torque& drag.  MWCNT nanoparticle treated drilling fluid showed improved hole-cleaning efficiency.