Aging and Temperature Effects on the Performance of Sustainable One-Part Geopolymers Developed for Well-Cementing Applications

Abstract

Summary This study elucidates the effects of aging and temperature over the performance of one-part “just add water” (JAW) granite-based geopolymers for application in well cementing and well abandonment. Additionally, the investigation delves into the fluid-state and early-age solid-state properties of these geopolymers, with a particular emphasis on their performance after aging. The aging process extended up to 56 days for assessing mechanical properties and up to 28 days for evaluating hydraulic sealability through dedicated tests. The obtained results unveil a nonlinear correlation between the designated temperature and pumping duration. Notably, the issue of fluid loss emerged as a significant concern for these geopolymers. The early-age strength development of the mix design containing zinc demonstrates adherence to industry norms by achieving minimal strength requirements within 24 hours of curing. Zinc plays a pivotal role as a strength enhancer during the initial curing stages of geopolymers, both under ambient conditions and at elevated temperatures (70℃). However, upon extended curing at elevated temperatures, zinc’s impact slightly diminishes compared with the unmodified mix design. After around 30 days of curing, a consecutive reaction occurs in both the unmodified and zinc-modified mix designs. Aging leads to a decline in the material’s hydraulic sealability that was initially established during the early stages of curing.