Utilization of oil-based mud drilling cuttings wastes from shale gas extraction for cement clinker production

A large amount of oil-based mud drilling cuttings (OBMDC) are generated during shale gas extraction, which adversely affects the environment. In order to realize the resource utilization of waste, the object of this paper is to study the feasibility of OBMDC to produce cement clinker. The results showed that at relatively low calcination temperature, adding a certain amount of OBMDC can produce cement clinker successfully and reduce fuel consumption. The compressive strength, hydration performance, and physical characteristics of clinker with 0, 3, 6, and 9% OBMDC were investigated by chemical analysis methods, X-ray diffraction, isothermal calorimetry, mercury intrusion, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The results showed that the formulated cement has good hydration performance and the compressive strength also meets relevant standards. The heavy metal ions leaching test showed that the preparation of cement clinker by a low amount of OBMDC could effectively reduce the toxicity of OBMDC. In general, the preparation of cement clinker by OBMDC can realize the resource utilization of waste, effectively reduce its toxicity, and play a positive role in environmental protection.