Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Cairo University, Petroleum Engineering Department
2
Department of Mining, Petroleum and Metallurgical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Cairo University, Egypt
3
Faculty of Engineering, Petroleum Engineering Department, Cairo University, Egypt.
Abstract
In the Egyptian Western Desert's Northern region, drilling in the intermediate sections using water-based muds (WBM) often results in wellbore instability due to microfracture shale formations containing a high percentage of Smectite, leading to pack-offs and tight holes. Although non-aqueous drilling fluids (NAF) are successful, they are not always practical due to environmental concerns, logistics, and costs. Therefore, a WBM system that is environmentally friendly has become mandatory. Multiple investigations were conducted, including Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Shale Particle Disintegration Test (SPDT), Accretion Test, Bulk Hardness, and Linear Swell Meter (LSM) tests, to understand the shale mineral composition and evaluate shale stability in the presence of different test fluids. The research resulted in the development of a new drilling fluid system called NanoSeal-KP, which is environmentally friendly and incorporates a polyamine-based inhibitive additive with a copolymeric nanoparticle sealant agent to minimize shale fluid interaction and pore pressure transmission, respectively. Furthermore, a solid lubricant additive guarantees premium lubricity. The study showed that the drilling fluid's performance is comparable to NAF, offering a promising alternative that has zero impact on Health, Safety, and Environment, such as exposure to toxic chemicals, fire hazards, air pollution, and soil contamination.
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