Investigation on tribological behaviors of a novel generation polymer-coated ceramsite particle for fracturing

Abstract

During fracturing, proppant particles can create favorable pathways for shale gas production. To solve the problem of low production efficiency of shale gas, a new polymer coated particle was prepared by experiment. And its mechanical properties were tested and tribological properties were studied under different speeds, loads and medium states. The results show that the new polymer coated particles have excellent tribological and mechanical properties. The friction coefficient between proppant particles and fracture surface decreases with increasing velocity. In addition, the new proppant particles have excellent hydrophobicity under lubricating conditions, indicating that the proppant has excellent migration efficiency. When proppants just pumped into the fracture, it can reach the fracture depth quickly. In addition, the friction coefficient between proppant particles and fracture surface gradually increases with the increase of load. It is further proved that when the proppant particles enter the fracture, the friction coefficient increases due to the extrusion of the fracture, and the reverse displacement can be effectively reduced. This research has important theoretical and practical engineering application value for improving the efficiency of shale gas stimulation.