Investigation of proteinaceous algal biomass as a drilling fluid component

Abstract

This study represents the first investigation into the potential of Spirulina algae proteins as drilling fluid constituents to address the problems of the environmental impacts of the petroleum industry. Algae protein is a common waste product from many bioprocessing operations including biofuel production, so this work also presents a solution to a waste utilization problem for bioprocessing industries. As such, this technology could create an important coproduct for bioprocessing industries while providing more sustainable and environmentally-benign drilling fluids for the petroleum industry. Algae biomass was hypothesized to serve as a bentonite replacement or as an additive that could improve drilling fluid performance by reducing fluid loss via permeation, and/or improvement of lubricity via reduction in coefficient of friction. Measurements were taken in accordance with API RP 13B-1 using an OFITE viscometer, OFITE 4-Unit HTHP Filter Press, and OFITE extreme pressure and lubricity tester. The rheological tests include viscosity, yield stress, and gel strength. Key findings include a friction reduction of up to 27% and a standard fluid loss as low as 13.5 mL. The biomass was able to increase the viscosity of the drilling fluids and exhibited a shear-thinning rheology with yield points exceeding 40 lbf/ft2. The rheology was fitted to the Bingham plastic model and the Herschel-Bulkley model. These findings have potential impacts in the fields of petroleum, chemical, environmental, and material engineering. It is concluded that Spirulina biomass is a good potential additive for decreasing fluid loss and improving the lubricity of drilling fluids, but it will not suffice as a bentonite replacement.