A PROJECT REPORT ON

Feasibility of nanoparticles in the polymer-based drilling fluid system

(20-May-2024 TO 20-July-2024)

PROJECT UNDERTAKEN AT:

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
(ONGC) Institute of Drilling Technology
(IDT) Kaulagarh Road, Dehradun-
India

PROJECT MENTOR:
MR. Souptik Pal, Chief Chemist
DF (R&D) TG
IDT, ONGC, Dehradun

PREPARED BY:
ANSHUMAN SINGH NEGI
3rd year, B. Tech Chemical Engineering from National Institute of Technology Rourkela,
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 CERTIFICATE

This is certified that Mr. ANSHUMAN SINGH NEGI pursing Bachelor of Technology in
Chemical Engineering from “National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela,
769001, Odisha” has successfully completed the project on
“Feasibility of nanoparticles in the polymer-based drilling fluid system” at Institute of
Drilling Technology, ONGC, Dehradun from 20th May 2024 to 20 July, 2024 under my
guidance and has submitted a copy of project report after successful completion of the training.

During the above period, his attitude towards learning was excellent and I found him as
a hardworking, sincere towards the work assigned and diligent person and his behaviour
and conduct was good.

Mr. Souptik Pal

Chief Chemist
IDT, ONGC, Dehradun

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

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 It gives me immense pleasure to express my gratitude and indebtedness
to Mr. G.A.V.S. Prasad, ED-HOI, IDT for allowing me to work in this
prestigious institute which other people dream of doing in.

My heartfelt thanks to Mr. K.R. Babu, (GGM- Drilling), Head- DF & CF,
IDT, Mr. H.K.Anand (GM-Chemistry), Incharge DF (R&) TG,IDT, Mr.
R.K.Raigar (GM-Chemistry), Incharge CF (R&) TG,IDT and my
project mentor MR. Souptik Pal, Chief Chemist, DF (R&D) TG-IDT,
ONGC,
Dehradun, who allowed me to do this project in Drilling Fluids and has
been very supportive and helpful throughout the duration of training. Their
constant guidance has been a source of inspiration for me throughout this
project.

I extend my gratitude to Mr. CHAITANYA KUMAR, Dr. VED

PRAKASH DHYANI & Miss. SUMAN SHARMA for giving me the
knowledge about the different equipment used in laboratory and for helping
me in all experimental work.

ANSHUMAN SINGH NEGI

SCOPE OF THE PROJECT

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The project gives basic introductory idea of Water Based Drilling Fluids. It also
focuses on its application in petroleum industry and non-petroleum industry. This
project also contains terminologies used in water-based drilling fluids.

A short idea is given on drilling fluid to understand –

● The functions of drilling fluid

● The classification/types of the drilling fluid.
● The different parameters of water-based drilling fluid.
● The instruments which are used to determine the properties of the
drilling fluid.
● The uses and application of the drilling fluid.

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CONTENTS
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About ONGC

1.1 Introduction

1.2 Organization set up 9

1.3 Vision 10

1.4 Mission 10

About IDT 12

Drilling fluids 14

3.1 Introduction 15

3.2 Functions 17

3.3 Classification 17

A.Water Based Mud 18

B. Oil based Mud 18

C. Gas Based Mud 19

Parameters 20

4.1 Mud Weight 20

4.2 Viscosity 21

A. Funnel Viscosity 21

B. Apparent Viscosity 21

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 C. Plastic Viscosity 21

D. Yield Point 22

4.3 Gelation 22

4.4 Filtration Properties 23

A. LPLT filter press 24

B. HPHT filter press 25

4.5 Lubricity 26

4.6 pH 27
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Feasibility Study of Nano Particles in Water-
Based Drilling Fluid

Chapter-1: Introduction

1.1 Preparation of Nano Based Drilling Fluid

Systems 29

Chapter-2: Materials and Methods 30

Chapter-3: Result and Discussion 32

Chapter-4: Conclusion 36

LIST OF TABLES:

Sr No. TITLE Pg No.

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 Properties of SET-1, SET-2 and SET-3 and SET-4 mud samples at before
1. hot rolling (BHR) for Type 1 32

Properties of SET-1, SET-2 and SET-3 and SET-4 mud samples at after
2. hot rolling (AHR) at 130 degree celcius for 16 hrs for Type 1 32

Properties of SET-1 and SET-2 mud samples at before hot rolling

3. (BHR) for Type 2 33

Properties of SET-1 and SET-2 mud samples at after hot rolling (AHR) at
4. 130degree Celsius for 16 hrs for Type 2 33

Properties of SET-1 and SET-2 mud samples at before hot rolling

5. (BHR) for Type 3 34

Properties of SET-1 and SET-2 mud samples at after hot rolling (AHR) at
6. 130-degree Celsius for 16 hrs for Type 3 34

Properties of SET-1 and SET-2 mud samples at after hot rolling (AHR) at
7. 130-degree Celsius for 16 hrs for Type 4 35

Properties of SET-1, SET-2 and SET-3 mud samples at before hot rolling
8. (BHR) for Type 35

Properties of SET-1, SET-2 and SET-3 mud samples at after hot rolling (AHR)
9. at 130-degree Celsius for 16 hrs 36

ABOUT ONGC
1.1 Introduction

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation limited (ONGC) is an Indian public sector
multinational oil and gas company which is owned by the Government of India. It

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was founded on 14th August 1956 by the Government of India and today has become
world’s one of the largest integrated oil exploration and production (E & P) company.
Maharatna ONGC is the largest crude oil and natural gas Company in India which
contributes around 75 per cent to Indian domestic production.

It has transformed the country’s limited upstream sector into a large sector which is
widely spread throughout the whole country along with having significant activities in
the overseas as well. It ranks among the top 20 Exploration & Production oil companies
of the world.

1.2 Organisation set up

ONGC was formed under the able leadership of Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru. Shri
Keshav Dev Malviya laid the foundation of ONGC in the form of Oil and Gas Division
under the Geological Survey of India in 1955. After few months, it was converted into
an Oil and Natural Gas Directorate. This Directorate was further converted into
Commission and christened Oil and Gas Oil & Natural Gas Commission on 14 August
1956. In 1994, Oil and Natural Gas Commission was converted into a Corporation.

Company has stationed its registered office at the country’s capital i.e., New Delhi
and its Corporate Office is situated at Dehradun. The organisation set-up of Oil and
Natural Gas Corporation Limited is on the basis of functional specialisation. Corporate
ONGC works on the basis of Basins and Assets.

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1.3 Vision

The main vision of the company is to become a global leader in the integrated
energy business through sustainable growth, knowledge excellence and exemplary
governance practices.

1.4 Mission

The mission of ONGC is listed below:

1. World class-

• It is dedicated to excellence by leveraging competitive advantages in R&D and

technology with involved people.

• To imbibe high standards of business ethics and organizational values.

• Abiding commitment to safety, health and environment to enrich quality of
community life.

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 • To Foster a culture of trust, openness and mutual concern to make a working,
Stimulating and challenging experience for our people.
• To thrive for customer delight through quality products and services.

2. Integrated in Energy Business

▪ Focus on domestic and international oil and gas exploration and production
business opportunities.

o Provide value linkages in other sectors of energy

business. o Create growth opportunities and maximize

shareholder value.

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 ABOUT IDT

The Indian Institute of Drilling Technology was established in 1978 at Dehradun. It

is located in the Doon Valley which is between the lower Himalayas and the green
Shivaliks. It is currently involved in R&D and has also provided high quality services in
the area of oil and gas well drilling technology.

Over time, this institute has established itself as the foremost research and
development hub in South Asia. It possesses the capacity to impart sophisticated
technical knowledge through training while also providing viable solutions to industry
challenges. The Institute of Drilling Technology (IDT) delivers techno-economic
expertise and resolves field issues encountered by various sectors within ONGC. Its aim
is to facilitate costeffective exploration and production endeavors for the company.

The institute not only conducts research and development but also offers training to
equip a skilled and effective workforce. This workforce, trained through the ONGC
Training Academy, is proficient in delivering results. Under the expert guidance of
experienced engineers and scientists, the IDT engages in applied research across all
drilling-related activities, striving for technical excellence.

IDT stands out among drilling institutes in India, boasting infrastructure for
advanced R&D and state-of-the-art equipment for high-quality experimentation. The
primary R&D focus includes drilling technology, drilling fluid engineering, and
cementation techniques, addressing the ongoing challenges of the drilling industry.
Technologists and scientists collaborate to solve downhole drilling issues, enhance
system designs, and promote excellent, efficient, and cost-effective operations.

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Also, the integrated HRD division imparts training to the participants from both the national as well as the
international oil companies in various aspects of oil well drilling technologies. The renowned Well Control School at
IDT has been accredited by the International Well Control Forum (Netherlands), International Alliance for Well
Control (Netherlands), and also from International Association of Drilling Contractors (USA)

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 DRILLING FLUIDS

3.1. Introduction

Drilling mud, additionally called drilling liquid, in petroleum designing is a heavy,

viscous liquid blend that is utilized in oil and gas drilling activities to convey rock
cuttings to the surface and furthermore to grease up and cool the boring apparatus. The
penetrating mud, by hydrostatic pressing factor, additionally helps anticipation of the
breakdown of unsteady layers into the borehole and the interruption of water from water
bearing layers that might be experienced.

Drilling fluids typically rely on water, whether fresh, seawater, naturally occurring saline
solutions, or engineered saltwater. Many use oil-based formulations, employing
byproducts of petroleum refining like diesel or mineral oil as the fluid medium.
Additionally, synthetic-based muds are prepared using highly refined liquid compounds
meeting stricter specifications than traditional petroleum-based oils. Generally, water-
based muds suffice for less demanding vertical well drilling at moderate depths, while
oil-based counterparts are preferable for greater depths or in directional or horizontal
drilling scenarios, which exert more pressure on equipment. Synthetic-based alternatives
emerged due to environmental concerns surrounding oil-based fluids, although all drilling
muds undergo stringent composition regulations, with certain blends sometimes restricted
in specific environments.

The formulation of drilling fluid significantly impacts the success of drilling operations,
necessitating thorough analysis. A comprehensive academic resource on drilling fluids
is
"Composition and Properties of Drilling and Completion Fluids" authored by Caen,
Darley, and Gray. Suppliers of drilling fluid materials offer a plethora of publications,
and extensive articles can be found in the technical literature of the oil and gas industry.

The three main categories of drilling fluids are: firstly, the water-based muds
(WBs), which can be dispersed and non-dispersed; second are the non-aqueous muds,
usually called oil-based muds (OBs); and lastly, they are the gaseous drilling fluid, in
which a wide range of gases can be used. Along with their formatives, these are used
along with appropriate polymer and clay additives for drilling various oil and gas
formations.

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Drilling mud is pumped down the hollow drill pipe to the drill bit, where it exits the
pipe and then is flushed back up the borehole to the surface. For economic and
environmental reasons, oil- and synthetic-based muds are usually cleaned and
recirculated (though some muds, particularly water-based muds, can be discharged into
the surrounding environment in a regulated manner). Larger drill cuttings are removed
by passing the returned mud through one or more vibrating screens, and sometimes fine
cuttings are removed by passing the mud through centrifuges. Cleaned mud is blended
with new mud for reuse down the borehole.
The primary function of drilling fluid is to provide hydrostatic pressure to resent
the formation fluids from going into the well bore, keeping the drill bit cool and clean
during drilling, carrying the drill cuttings, and suspending the drill cuttings while
drilling is stopped and when the drilling gathering is acquired in and out of the opening.
The drilling fluid is utilized for a specific occupation and is chosen to avoid formation
damage and to restrict corrosion.

3.2 Functions of Drilling Fluid:

• Lifting of Drill Cuttings: Lifting of the drill cutting is the foremost
function of the drilling fluid. We require adequate suspension properties
to make sure that the cutting and the solids which are added such as barite
does not settle during static intervals. It carries the rock excavated by the
drill bit up to the surface. Its ability to do so depends on cutting size,
shape, density and speed of fluid travelling up the well (annular velocity).

 Suspend and Release Cuttings: We need to suspend the cutting and stop the
circulation sometimes to weigh the material. Most drilling muds are
“Thixotropic” (viscosity increases during the static conditions) i.e.,
keeps the cuttings suspended when the mud is not flowing during
maintenance. The drill cutting that settles down can form bridges and
fills which leads to the pipe being stuck which ultimately stops the
circulation. Weight material that settles down are called “Sag”. Hence,
we need to have the drilling fluid with certain gelling characteristics
which will prevent such situations.

• Controls Formation Pressure: Formation pressure is the pressure

generated by fluids in the pores and hydrostatic pressure is the pressure
generated by the drilling mud from above.

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 If formation pressure increases, then the wellbore becomes unstable and
unbalanced formation pressure will cause an unexpected influx (kick) of
formation fluids and will eventually result in a blowout.

In order to prevent a blowout, then the mud density should also be increased
in
order to balance the hydrostatic pressure and keep the wellbore stable.

Although we are increasing the mud density for the stability of wellbore but
too much high mud density can lead to fracture of formation.

If hydrostatic pressure > or = formation pressure, fluid will not flow into the
wellbore.

Hence, this drilling mud fights against a blowout. Therefore, we need to

maintain an accurate fluid density for the wellbore stability.

• Maintain the well bore stability: Chemical properties and mud

compositions must combine to provide a stable wellbore. If we can
maintain the optimal density of the drilling fluid, not only it helps in
containing the formation pressure but also prevents the fall down of an hole
and destabilisation of shale. The wellbore should be made free of any
restrictions and tight spots, which will help in smooth movement of the
drill string in and out of the hole.

If the hole is enlarged, it is difficult to stabilize it. After we have drilled to the
desired depth, wellbore should be stable kept under the static conditions while
casing is being done to the bottom and has been perfectly cemented.

• Cooling and lubrication of the drill string:

Since when we are rotating the bit and the drill string at relatively
very high revolutions per minute, the friction caused by the rotating bit against
the rock generates heat. This heat is generated from hydraulics and mechanical forces at the
bit. The circulation of the drilling fluid reduces the friction and cools the drill string down.

Lubrication is based upon the coefficient of friction. The drilling fluid provides
lubricity which can be caused to aid the movement of the drill pipe that are made by
directional drilling. Since the Oil based fluids and the synthetic based fluids provides
greater degree of lubricity, they are preferred for the high angle directional wells.

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 • Information about the Wellbore: Since the drilling fluid is closely
connected with the wellbore, we can generate vital information about the
formation being drilled. Drilling fluid has the ability to preserve the
cuttings as they are moving up through the annulus, it directly affects the
work which can be done on the cuttings. These cuttings will give us an idea
about the physical and chemical condition of the drilling fluid.
• Transmit the Hydraulic Energy: Hydraulic energy provides power to mud
motors for bit rotation and for MWD (Measurement While Drilling) and
LWD (Logging While Drilling) tools.

It is limited to:
• Pump Horsepower
• Pressure loss inside drill string
• Optimum flow rate

Low solids, shear thinning drilling fluids such as polymer fluids are more
efficient in transmission of hydraulic energy.

3.3 Classification of Drilling Fluids:

As we know that drilling fluids are colloidal solution of dispersed phase (solid
particles) and dispersing medium (continuous phase). The continuous phase is an
indicator of function and the performance of the fluid. The classification scheme is
according to the natural of continuous phase is
• Water Based
• Oil Based
• Gas Based

A. Water Based (WBM):

These drilling fluids have water as the base fluid, sometimes geothermal brine
solution is also used as base fluid. We prefer water-based muds while drilling the top
sections of the well. 50% volume is occupied by the water in WBM. The solid part
contains clay (bentonite), polymers and minerals such as barite. These active and
inert solids are added to attain specific function. Clay, being an active solid increases
the viscosity of the mud for easy transport of cuttings to the surface and barite, being
an inert solid act as a weighing material to stabilize the column. All the active and
inert solids are

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 known as viscosifier. In order to acquire other parameters like pH, filtration
property, reduce corrosion etc, numerous components are added such as caustic
soda, salts and various petroleum derivatives.

Advantages of using water

• Reduced cost
• Improved bit life
• Reduced likelihood of a kick
• Improved penetration rates
• Improved productivity of the well as compared to drilling using mud:
• Reduced risk of differential sticking

Disadvantages of using water • A large

volume of water is required
• Increased risk of stuck drill string: • No geological data • Reduced permeability:
• Long well recovery periods

B. Oil Based Muds (OBM):

This category of drilling fluid has oil as the continuous phase. Other phases are
brine and solid phase. This is also known as invert emulsion mud as it contains less than 5 vol
% of water. The base oil includes petroleum products such as diesel, kerosene, fuel oil,
selected crude oil or mineral oil. Their major advantage over WBM is to prevent the
formation damage because they do not allow water to enter the pores spaces. Their other
advantages are increased lubricating qualities, high boiling point and freezing point. So, the
high cost OBM is justified for better performance.

C. Gas Based Drilling Fluids:

These types of drilling fluid comprise gas or aerated mud or aqueous foams.
Special equipment is used for carrying cutting and formation fluids to the surface.
They are used for high velocity streams of air, used to drill through high-pressure
hydrocarbon- or fluid-laden formations. These fluids are called ‘underbalanced
fluids. This underbalanced drilling technology is generally adopted for poorly
consolidated and/or fractured formation.

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PARAMETERS OF WATER BASED DRILLING
FLUIDS

4.1 Mud Weight:

Mud weight, synonymous with mud density, represents the mass-to-volume

ratio and is typically measured in pounds per gallon (PPG), pounds per cubic foot
(lb/ft3), or grams per milliliter (g/ml). Constituting around 5-15% of overall
drilling expenses, it plays a crucial role in regulating formation and hydrostatic
pressures within the wellbore, preventing undesired fluid influx. Its primary
purpose is to ensure wellbore stability, mitigating casing and open-hole collapse
risks.

Despite its relatively modest cost contribution, mud weight can single-
handedly trigger 100% of drilling challenges. Inadequate mud weight can lead to
an unbalanced well condition, allowing fluid ingress and risking bore collapse
due to insufficient pressure containment. Conversely, excessive mud weight can
cause uncontrolled mud breakouts, resulting in drilling fluid loss through
fractured formations. Moreover, high mud weight, associated with slow
penetration rates, may cause differential sticking of the drilling pipe in permeable
rock formations, while also damaging porous formations.

The mud weight assessment procedure typically involves employing a

standardized mud balance, as outlined by the American Petroleum Institute
(API). Utilizing a pressurized mud balance is preferable to mitigate inaccuracies
stemming from air entrapped within the fluid phase.

4.2 Viscosity:

It is defined as the friction occurring between molecules in a liquid and is

responsible for the resistance to flow. High Viscosity drilling fluid is prudent to
carry out the cutting to the surface and it also helps in the suspension of the
weighing agents which are present in the mud. Annular viscosity is an important
aspect of the flow property of mud. But if the viscosity is very high, then the
friction may delay or prevent the circulation of mud, decreasing the drilling rate,
wasting the fuel, becoming the reason for the loss of circulation, and eventually,
disturbing the solids removal equipment.

There are four types of Viscosity which are:

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A. Funnel Viscosity:
It is useful for relative comparison as it measures the complete flow time of
the mud (in seconds) to flow through the Marsh funnel which is having a
capacity of 946 cc. It is not the true viscosity but it serves as a qualitative
measure telling us about the thickness of the mud sample. Since the funnel
viscosity is measured at only one rate of shear in which the temperature varies
during each measurement, hence it is not the true viscosity. Also, it shows the
change of viscosity from time to time. The measuring setup consists of an
inverted cone (Marsh funnel) which is half fitted with the filtration screen at
the opening. The leftover part above the sieve is known as the filtration cake.
The mud is allowed to flow through the screen and the outflow reading is
recorded frequently to get the funnel viscosity. The trends of funnel viscosity
point out the issues with the fluid to the single point cannot give any type of
outlook about the fluid.
B. Apparent Viscosity (AV):
It is the ratio of shear stress to shear rate. It gives the idea of relative viscosity.
It is reported as one-half of the dial reading at 600 rpm (1,022 sec–1 shear
rate) using a direct-indicating, rotational viscometer. The dimensions of the
bob and motor are chosen so that the dial reading is equal to the apparent
Newtonian viscosity in centipoise (cp) at 300 rpm rotor speed.
AV =θ (600 rpm) /2

C. Plastic Viscosity (PV):

It refers to the solid-liquid and solid-solid interaction with the mud. It also
indicates solid content in the mud. Generally, a low concentration of solids is

desired to be in the drilling fluid, so thereby PV should also be low.

Lower PV suggests that the mud is having the ability of drilling quickly
because of the low viscosity of the exiting bit mud. Due to the higher
concentration of colloidal solids and the presence of viscous base fluids,

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 viscosity increases with PV. It is an important property of drilling mud that
must be kept within designed limits for efficient drilling. It is expressed as
centipoise (cP).

PV =θ (600 rpm) – θ (300 rpm)

D. Yield Point (YP):

It refers to the resistance of the initial flow of the fluid or stress
required to start the motion of the fluid. It is the electrostatic force of
attraction around the solid particle in the mud. The forces of attraction
between the colloidal particles in the drilling fluid will prevent the fluid
from flowing until the required stress is applied. Graphical one can say
that it
is the shear stress (initial point when shear stress is zero). This is
responsible for hole cleaning and lifting the cuttings to the surface. So, a
larger diameter of hole is drilled to support higher YP. It is dependent on
mud weight. Low density mud requires a YP of 20-25 and high-density mud
(specific gravity>2) requires a YP of 30-35. The consequences of high YP
causes hole erosion and over gauge, whereas low YP causes under gauge. So,
the optimum value of YP is required. Another consequence of higher YP is
larger friction pressure loss. If we increase the value of temperature and
overtreat the mud with lime and caustic soda, it results in a higher value of
YP. Operational impacts in increasing YP include an increase in equivalent
circulating density (ECD). It is also known as dynamic gelation. It is
calculated by dial reading.

YP = θ (300 rpm) - PV

The unit of YP is lb/100 ft2.

4.3 Gelation:

As we know that the drilling mud is a Thixotropic fluid and it has a time
dependent shear thinning property. At the drilling condition, when the pressure is
exerted mud should be fluid otherwise in the absence of pressure it acts like a gel.
This tendency is required because when drilling is in static condition (paused for
a certain reason

while adding a new drill pipe), then the gel holds the cutting and does not
fall, preventing the loss of mud. There are two types of gelation namely
Progressive and Fragile gelation. In order to determine the type of gelation, we

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measure some specific value in accordance with time. These are the gel strength
namely 10- minute gel strength, 10-second gel strength, etc at 3 rpm. For
example, 10-second gel strength is measured on a viscometer at 3 rpm reading
after cleaning the mud at 600 rpm to break the gel. If the reading is noted at 10
seconds when the mud is in a static condition, then this reading is termed as 10-
second gel strength (Gel-0). Similarly, If the next reading is taken at 10 minutes
in the static mud condition, then it is termed as 10-minute gel strength.

To define fragile gelation, we say that the difference between gel-10 and gel0
should be minimum. If the difference in value is significant or say gel-10 is twice
than the gel-0, indicating that the gelation is increasing with time, then the
gelation is known as progressive. In the case of progressive gelation, the
restoration in the drilling process with the conversion of gel mud into a fluid is
difficult. Here, a large pressure is required to break circulation. Therefore,
fragile gelation is acceptable for drilling fluid. 30-minute-gel strength is also
often checked. A mud with low gelation cannot suspend the cuttings. The factors
which increase the gel strength of water-based mud are the addition of bacteria,
ultrafine solid, chemical contamination like gypsum and acid gases like Carbon
dioxide, Nitrogen sulphide.

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 ► Starch

• Pregelatinized Starch

► Cellulose
• Polyanionic cellulose (PAC)
• Carbonyl methyl cellulose (CMC)

These materials hold the water molecule against the pressure and temperature,
hence reduce the filtration loss. During the measurement filtration loss, an optimized
mud density is set so that pressure is applied from the bottom, the mud column then
because of this pressure liquid part filters out from the rock and the mud solid settles
on the well walls. If the thickness of the filter of the filter cake increases then the
diameter of the pipe decreases. Filtrate penetrates through the shale section, then

23
shale swells up and sloughs. The sloughing is the reason for stuck up of the drill
pipe. In

this situation, the productivity of oil well is adversely affected. More filtration
loss gives rise to thicker filter cake, then this creates the situation of stuck up, where
string can’t move due to more filtration loss (thicker cake formation).

B. High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) Filter Press:

This is favourable only for extreme conditions, well temperature should be

more than 150 degree C and the well differential pressure is maintained not more
than 500 psi. Practically this differential pressure never exceeds from 200-300
psi. Drilling cuttings are converted to fine powder then compacted pallet is
formed. This pallet is dipped in the mud to resemble the actual situation and the
experiment is performed. Desired result should be less than 20ml. Acceptable
value of soiling is10-15%.

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4.4 Lubricity:

Lubricity in drilling fluids refers to the ability of the fluid to reduce

friction between the drill string and the walls of the wellbore during drilling
operations. High lubricity is essential for smooth drilling operations as it
helps prevent problems such as sticking of the drill string or the drill bit,
which can lead to costly downtime and equipment damage.

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 Drilling fluids, also known as drilling muds, typically contain additives
to enhance their lubricity. These additives can include various types of
lubricants such as synthetic oils, fatty acids, or polymers. They work by

forming a thin film between the drill string and the wellbore, reducing
friction and allowing for easier movement of the drilling equipment.

Maintaining adequate lubricity in drilling fluids is crucial for efficient

drilling operations, especially in challenging environments such as highly
deviated or horizontal wells where frictional forces can be particularly high.
Additionally, proper lubricity helps extend the life of drilling equipment
and reduce the risk of costly accidents and delays.

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 4.6 pH:

pH in drilling fluids is a crucial parameter that impacts various aspects of

the drilling process, including the stability of the fluid, corrosion control, and
the effectiveness of certain additives. The pH level indicates the acidity or
alkalinity of the drilling fluid.

Maintaining the pH within a specific range is essential for several reasons:

1. Fluid Stability: The pH affects the stability of clays and other solids in the
drilling fluid. An optimal pH helps prevent clay swelling or dispersion, which
can lead to wellbore instability and issues like stuck pipe or formation damage.

2. Corrosion Control: The pH of the drilling fluid can influence its corrosiveness
towards metal components in the wellbore and drilling equipment. Controlling
the pH within a recommended range helps mitigate corrosion and prolong the life
of equipment.

3. Additive Performance: Many additives used in drilling fluids have specific pH

requirements for optimal performance. For example, certain polymers or
inhibitors may be less effective if the pH deviates from their ideal range.

Typically, the recommended pH range for drilling fluids varies depending

on the specific application, the type of formation being drilled, and the additives
used. However, a common target pH range for most water-based drilling fluids
is between 8 and 10.

Monitoring and adjusting the pH of drilling fluids is usually done using pH

meters or testing kits. Chemicals such as lime, caustic soda, or acids may be
added to the fluid to adjust its pH as needed. It's essential to follow guidelines
provided by drilling fluid engineers or manufacturers to ensure the proper pH
level is maintained throughout the drilling operations.

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Feasibility Study of Nano Particles in Water-Based Drilling Fluid

CHAPTER-1: INTRODUCTION

Nano particles are surface-charged particles, which have been used widely in the
drilling fluid since last couple of decades to improve the efficacy of drilling fluid at high
temperature as compared to polymeric additive (Aftab et al. 2017; Rafati et al. 2018). The
heat stability, filtration and rheological properties of drilling fluid have been improved by
Nanoparticles in water-based drilling fluid; therefore, a suitable size of Nanoparticle is the
explication of drilling under drastic conditions like HPHT and water-sensitive shale
formations. (Cheraghian et al. 2021. Hoelscher et al. 2012, Katenda et al. 2019). Recently,
various nano particles like bismuth ferrite (Perween et al. 2019), hydrophilic Gilsonite
(Pakdaman et al. 2019), cupric oxide and zinc oxide (Beg et al. 2019; Dejtaradon 2019),
zinc titanate (Perween et al. 2018) and magnesium aluminium silicate (Wang et al. 2018),
barite nano particle (Caldarola, 2016. Loggins et al. 2017) titanium dioxide (Bayat et al.
2019), TiO2 /Polyacrylamide nanocomposite (Sadeghalvaad et al. 2015), etc. as additives
have been used in water-based drilling fluid to improve its efficiency. The salt
contamination of bentonite water-based drilling fluid with cellulose nanocrystal reveals
that cellulose nanocrystal stabilized rheology and filtration property of bentonite water-
based mud (Li et al. 2020a, b, c). Water-based drilling fluids (WDFs) with thermo
controllable rheological properties are developed using bentonite (BT) and dual-
functionalized cellulose nanocrystals (fCNCs). This work demonstrated a new concept of
formulating smart drilling fluid based on BT and biomass-derived CNCs via rational
surface fictionalization and interface design, paving the way for the development of next
generation of drilling fluids with low toxicity, sustainability, in situ rheology
controllability, and thermal tolerance. (Li et al. 2020a, b, c).
The challenges in drilling problems such as formation damage, pipe sticking, lost
circulation, poor hole cleaning, and fluid loss need better solutions. Nanotechnology, by
means of nanofluids, provides potential solutions for the development of improved water-
based mud (WBM). This work presents the use of Nanofluid prepared in various base
fluids, such as xanthan gum, polyethylene glycol, and more which are commonly used in
oilfield operations, for the development of nanofluid-enhanced drilling mud (NWBM).
We prepared formulations of various nanofluids with varying concentrations of
nanoparticles, such as 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 wt%, and were investigated for their effect on the
thermal, electrical, and fluid-loss properties of NWBM. In addition, these results also
were then compared with Base drilling fluid to conclude its effect on rheological
properties and filtration control. Filtration-loss and filter-cake-thickness studies on WBM
and NWBM

28
 were also carried out with an American Petroleum Institute (API) filter press. It is
observed that the fluid loss decreases with addition of the nanofluids in WBM. The
studies, in general, bear testimony to the efficacy of nanofluids in the development of
next-generation improved water-based drilling fluids suitable for efficient drilling
operation.

1.1 Preparation of Nano Based Drilling Fluid Systems:

Various Drilling Fluid systems were prepared as per the guidelines of API standard.
These Drilling fluid systems were designated as SET 1, SET-2, SET-3 and SET-4. The
drilling fluid system which is free from nano particles called Base Mud (SET -1).
However various concentrations of X Nano Particles ranging from 0.1 to 0.3 are added in
the base mud and called Nano Fluid. SET-2, SET-3 and SET-4 contain the
concentrations of 0.1%(w/v), 0.2 % and 0.3% X Nano particles in base mud respectively.
This is termed as Drilling Fluid (Type 1).
On the similar basis, systems of Drilling Fluid (Type1) and (Type 2) were prepared
varying the Nano particle concentration from 0.1% to 0.3%.

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CHAPTER -2: MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Material Used:
1. Soda Ash (Anhydrous Sodium Carbonate)
2. Biocide (Para Formaldehyde)
3. KCl (Potassium Chloride)
4. XCP (Xantham Gum Polymer)
5. PHPA (Partially Hydrolysed poly Acrylamide)
6. Polyol
7. PAC (LVG)
8. MCC (Micronized Calcium Carbonate)
9. Barite (Barium Sulphate)

Composition of Drilling Fluid (Type 1):

Composition of Base Mud:
Technical water + 0.1% Soda Ash + 0.1% Biocide + 5% KCl + 0.2% XCP +
0.3% PHPA + 1.3% PAC(LVG) + 2% SA + 6% MCC + Barite (SG: 1.4)

 SET-1:
Composition of Base Mud
SET-2:
Base Mud+ 0.1% X Nanoparticle
SET- 3:
Base Mud+ 0.2% X Nanoparticle
SET- 4:
Base Mud+ 0.3% X Nanoparticle

Composition of Drilling Fluid (Type 2):

Composition of Base Mud:
Technical water + 0.1% Soda Ash + 0.1% Biocide + 5% KCl + 0.2% XCP +
0.3% PHPA + 1.2% PAC(LVG) + 2% SA + 6% MCC + Barite (SG: 1.4)

• SET-1 :
Composition of Base Mud
SET-2:
Base Mud+ 0.1% X Nanoparticle
CHAPTER-3: RESULT AND DISCUSSION

Table 1:
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 Properties of SET-1, SET-2 and SET-3 and SET-4 mud samples at before hot rolling
(BHR) for Type 1

Mud Properties Values

Set 1 Set 2 Set 3 Set 4

Mud weight (ppg) 1.4 1.4 1.4 1.4

pH 9.2 9.0 8.9 8.8

AV(cP) 81 73.5 94 99
PV (cP) 53 51 63 63
YP (lb/100ft2 ) 56 45 72 72
Gel 0 (lb/100ft2) 8 7 5 10
Gel 10 (lb/100ft2 ) 17 14 14 35
HPHT, Filtration loss volume (cc) - - - -

Table 2:
Properties of SET-1, SET-2 and SET-3 and SET-4 mud samples at after hot rolling
(AHR) at 100 degrees Celsius/500 psi for 16 hrs for Type 1

Mud Properties Values

Set 1 Set 2 Set 3 Set 4

Mud weight (ppg) 1.4 1.4 1.4 1.4

pH 9.2 9.0 8.9 8.8

AV(cP) 78 49 72.5 52.5
PV (cP) 66 38 50 10
YP (lb/100ft2 ) 24 22 45
Gel 0 (lb/100ft2) 9 3 9 9
Gel 10 (lb/100ft2 ) 11 4 11 12
LPLT, Filtration loss volume (cc) 19 12 16 12
HPHT, Filtration loss Volume (cc) 19 12 16 12

TABLE 3:
Properties of SET-1 and SET-2 mud samples at before hot rolling (BHR) for Type 2
Mud Properties Values

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 Set 1 Set 2

Mud weight (ppg) 1.4 1.4

pH 9.0 8.8
AV(cP) 69 67.5
PV (cP) 53 45
YP (lb/100ft2 ) 32 45
Gel 0 (lb/100ft2) 5 7
Gel 10 (lb/100ft2 ) 8 9
HPHT, Filtration loss volume (cc) - -

TABLE 4:
Properties of SET-1 and SET-2 mud samples at after hot rolling (AHR) at 130-degree
Celsius/500 psi for 16 hrs for Type 2
Mud Properties Values
Set 1 Set 2

Mud weight (ppg) 1.4 1.4

pH 9.0 8.8
AV(cP) 52.5 26
PV (cP) 41 21
YP (lb/100ft2 ) 23 10
Gel 0 (lb/100ft2) 3 2
Gel 10 (lb/100ft2 ) 8 4
HPHT, Filtration loss Volume (cc) 22 12

CHAPTER 4: CONCLUSION

32
 Various experiment studies were carried out, on the basis of them following
conclusions are drawn:
1) In KCl PHPA drilling fluid system, the filtration property (LPLT) of D. Fs were
improved by adding iron oxide nanoparticles ranging from 0.1 to 0.3.
2) It was observed that there was a very less and negligible change in LPLT filtration
loss after varying the concentration of iron oxide from 0.1 to 0.3 %. Hence, it is
advisable to use iron oxide nanoparticles as lower concentration (that is 0.1 %).
3) After hot rolling of drilling fluid system at 130 degrees Celsius for 16 hours, 0.1%
(w/v) iron oxide nanoparticles have reduced. LPLT filtration loss by 36.8% as
compared to base.
4) The rheological parameters of D.F systems were slightly decreased by increasing
the concentration of iron oxide nanoparticles from 0.1 % to 0.3 % as compared to
the base mud.

CHAPTER 5: MBC (METHYLENE BLUE CAPACITY) TEST

This test is also known as Cation Exchange Capacity Test. It is done to determine the
activity of clay. As we know that in clay both positive and negative ions are present. So,
in this test the positive ions of clay are exchanged by Methylene Blue cations. So, titration
takes place till all the positive ions on clay surface gets exchanged by the cations of
Methylene Blue. Here exchange of cations takes place when the Methylene Blue cations
get adsorbed on the surface of clay. Higher the volume of Methylene Blue required for
titration, higher will be the activity of clay. At the end point of titration, finally a ‘halo
ring’ is formed which is the point when we need to stop the titration and note the volume
of Methylene Blue required. There are following steps to perform MBC test: -

1) Take 2 ml of mud (drilling fluid) on a conical flask.

2) Then add 10 ml of distilled water in it.
3) Then add 15 ml of 3% hydrogen peroxide in it.
4) Finally add 0.5 ml of 5N sulphuric acid.
5) Put the flask over a magnetic hot plate and stir it by switching on the stirrer,
allowing volatile impurities to volatize out.
6) Then cool it down.
7) Add 50 ml of distilled water.
8) Then titrate against Methylene Blue till halo ring is formed.

CHAPTER 6: PHBS (Pre hydrated Bentonite Suspension)

Bentonite is a clay which is also known as sodium montmorillonite. It is a highly
reactive clay. It absorbs 10% water molecules by weight i.e. 1 gm bentonite absorbs 10

33
gm of water molecules. It swells 10% of its mass in water. It is used as a viscosifier as
well as fluid loss control agent in the drilling fluid.
Preparation:
10% Bentonite powder is dissolved in 8 litres of water, then it is agitated by mixer, kept
for 72 hours at 90 degrees Celsius for complete hydration. Required viscosity of PHBS is
achieved by first checking the initial viscosity at 600 rpm then it is diluted if viscosity is
higher so by trial-and-error method viscosity of PHBS is set in cP units.

34
 REFERENCES

● en.wikipedia.org
● www.iadc.org
● www.osha.gov
● petrowiki.spe.org
● https://onepetro.org/
● http://www.britannica.com/
● https://glossary.oilfield.slb.com/
● http://www.drillingformulas.com
● https://www.sciencedirect.com
● https://www.trenchlesspedia.com/definition/4292
/10-minute-gel-drilling-fluid ●
https://wiki.aapg.org/

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