Application of Resin-Cement Blend to Prevent Pressure Build-Up in Casing to Casing Annulus CCA: A Novel Approach to Improve Well Integrity

Abstract

Abstract Assurance of well integrity is critical and important throughout the entire well's life cycle. Pressure build-up between cemented casings annuli has been a major challenge all around the world. Cement is the main element that provides isolation and protection for the well. The cause for pressure build-up in most cases is a compromise of cement sheath integrity that allows fluids to migrate through micro-channels from the formation all the way to the surface. These problems prompt cementing technologists to explore new cementing solutions, to achieve reliable long-term zonal isolation in these extreme conditions by elevating shear bond strength along-with minimal shrinkage. The resin-cement system can be regarded as a novel technology to assure long term zonal isolation. This paper presents case histories to support the efficiency and reliability of the resin-cement system to avoid casing to casing annulus (CCA) pressure build-up. This paper presents lab testing and application of the resin-cement system, where potential high-pressure influx was expected across a water-bearing formation. The resin-cement system was designed to be placed as a tail slurry to provide a better set of mechanical properties in comparison to a conventional slurry. The combined mixture of resin and cement slurry provided all the necessary properties of the desired product. The slurry was batch-mixed to ensure the homogeneity of resin-cement slurry mixture. The cement treatment was performed as designed and met all zonal isolation objectives. Resin-cement’s increased compressive strength, ductility, and enhanced shear bond strength helped to provide a dependable barrier that would help prevent future sustained casing pressure (SCP). The producing performance of a well depends in great part on a good primary cementing job. The success of achieving zonal isolation, which is the main objective of cementing, is mainly attributed to the cement design. The resin-cement system is evolving as a new solution within the industry, replacing conventional cement in many crucial primary cementing applications. This paper highlights the necessary laboratory testing, field execution procedures, and treatment evaluation methods so that this technology can be a key resource for such operations in the future. The paper describes the process used to design the resin-cement system and how its application was significant to the success of the jobs. By keeping adequate strength and flexibility, this new cement system mitigates the risk of cement sheath failure throughout the life of well. It provides a long-term well integrity solution for any well exposed to a high-pressure environment.