Development of smart bentonite drilling fluid introducing iron oxide nanoparticles compatible to the reservoirs of Upper Assam

Abstract

Applications of nanoparticles (NPs) in petroleum drilling are the state-of-the art for nanotechnology and petroleum technology. Highlighting the role of iron oxide NPs as an additive and substitute to commercial additives, the research aims in formulation of a novel nano based drilling fluid (NDF) by meticulously studying the rheological and filtration properties. The research emphasizes on two perspectives of high cost of NPs and enhancement of properties of drilling fluid with maximum feasibility to explore the reservoirs of Upper Assam basins. Chemical reduction method was employed for synthesizing iron oxide NPs and characterized by ultraviolet visible spectrophotometer and particle size analyzer. Rheological and filtration properties of the NDF were conducted by addition of iron oxide NPs from 5 wt% to 40 wt%. The research presents the formulation of a smart drilling fluid using NPs as a sole additive replacing other commercial ones. NDF, so far has not been used in the reservoirs of Upper Assam Basins owing to economic factors and real-time feasibility. Apart from unleashing the various reasons for compatibility of NDF in such reservoirs, the research also highlights the practical limitations encountered during mud formulation and field use.