Perspective Review of Polymers as Additives in Water-Based Fracturing Fluids
Sameer Al-Hajri1, Berihun M Negash2, Md Motiur Rahman1
1Petroleum Engineering Department, Khalifa University, P.O. Box, 127788 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
ACS Omega
|March 14, 2022
Summary
Polymers are crucial additives in hydraulic fracturing fluids, acting as friction reducers and viscosifiers. This review covers their applications, limitations like degradation, and the potential of synthetic and associative polymers for enhanced well stimulation.
Area of Science:
- Petroleum Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Hydraulic fracturing has been a primary well stimulation technique for over 60 years in the oil and gas industry.
- Polymers are essential additives in fracturing fluids, serving as friction reducers and viscosifiers to aid proppant transport.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of polymers used in hydraulic fracturing fluids.
- To discuss current research, issues, and trends in polymer applications for slick-water and cross-linked gel systems.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published research on polymers in fracturing fluids.
- Analysis of polymer mechanisms, limitations (degradation, adsorption), and impact on fracture conductivity.
Main Results:
- Polymers are vital for proppant transport and influence fracture width, with higher viscosity leading to wider fractures.
- Synthetic and associative polymers show significant potential for improving fracturing fluid stability in unconventional reservoirs.
Conclusions:
- Polymers are indispensable in hydraulic fracturing, impacting both proppant delivery and fracture geometry.
- Further research into advanced polymers is recommended for optimizing fracturing fluid performance under reservoir conditions.
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