Study on the stability and green application exploration of waste drilling fluid

Abstract

AbstractIn order to store and utilize waste drilling fluid (WDF) in Shengli oilfield reasonably, the stability of WDF has been evaluated by using zeta potential and Turbiscan Lab stability analyzer methods. Meanwhile, based on a large number of indoor experiments, green application and different gels formulations on waste water‐based drilling fluids have been explored. The results indicate that particle coalescence is the main factor influencing the stability of WDF. The particle size is 0.460–66.897 μm, which can meet the requirements of geosphere. The optimized gel formulation is 25% TWDF (third level of WDF) + 0.4% suspension stabilizer STL + 0.36% cross‐linker A. Gelling time can be controlled in the range of 20–45 h and gel strength can be controlled in the range of 14,060–23,570 mPa·s. The gels exhibit good temperature resistance, viscoelasticity. The results of core plugging experiments show that the optimized gel has good plugging ability, which has potential application in profile control system in oilfield. This technology not only eliminates environment pollution but also realizes the reutilization of resources.