Improving the Rheological Properties of Water-based Drilling Muds Using Waste Glass Powder

Abstract

In this study, we examined the rheological characteristics of water-based drilling muds incorporated with waste glass powder (WGP) of eight different weights (0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, and 4.5 g). The waste glass powder was analysed using FTIR spectroscopy, SEM-EDS, XRD, and particle size analyser, to determine the specific components or compounds present, and the predominate particle size. The analyses showed that the waste glass powder mainly consisted of silicone oxides (SiO2), indicating that it is a pozzolanic material. Moreover, the dimensions of the particles had a substantial impact on the rheological characteristics. In addition, the study assessed the rheological characteristics of the prepared water-based drilling muds by employing a rotational viscometer. This involved measuring the gel strength at 10-second and 10-minute intervals, while keeping the rotational speed constant at 3 rpm. The investigation also recorded the viscosity and yield points at speed of 300 and 600 rpm. Furthermore, the investigation assessed the plastic viscosity, apparent viscosity, gel strength, and yield point for eight distinct amounts of waste glass powder under standard conditions. As a result, the plastic viscosity of the mud systems increased from 10 to 31 cP, and the apparent viscosity increased from 20 to 44.5 cP as the weight of the waste glass powder increased from 0 to 4.5 g in each of the formulated muds.  Furthermore, the highest plastic, and apparent viscosity values were averagely identified, and recorded as 30 and 45.7 cP with an optimal WGP concentration (3.5 g of WGP per 350 ml of deionised water). Whereas, the optimal GS was achieved at 5 and 8 lb/100 ft2 after 10 seconds and 10 minutes, respectively, when the dosage of WGP increased to 2.5 g. Also, as the concentration of WGP reached 4.0 g, the YP dropped from 35 to 8 lb/100 ft2 compared to the YP at a WGP concentration of 3.5 g. Correspondingly, the viscosity and yield point at which the gel solidifies rose as the concentration of waste glass powder increased. Environmentally, utilising waste glass powder to enhance the rheological characteristics of water-based drilling mud has the potential to mitigate the glass waste disposal issues, to the environment, and offer a feasible substitute for commercially accessible additive. This study offers vital insights into the alternative and efficient utilisation of waste glass powder in drilling the conductor and surface interval of a wellbore.