Temperature-Sensitive Modified Bentonite Based on NIPAM for Drilling Fluid: Experimental and Molecular Simulation...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Geology

Background:

• Bentonite is crucial for drilling fluid performance, but temperature fluctuations impact its effectiveness.
• Developing temperature-sensitive drilling fluid additives is significant for operational safety and economics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel temperature-sensitive modified bentonite (CMC-B-NIPAM).
• To evaluate the performance of CMC-B-NIPAM in drilling fluid applications, focusing on temperature sensitivity and rheological properties.

Main Methods:

• Intercalation modification of calcium bentonite with sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) and grafting of N-isopropyl acrylamide (NIPAM) using silane coupling agent KH570.
• Optimization of synthesis parameters using a single-factor method.
• Characterization using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR).
• Evaluation of temperature sensitivity, rheology, suspensibility, and expansion capacity.
• Molecular simulation to understand the synthesis mechanism.

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized CMC-B-NIPAM with excellent temperature sensitivity.
• Optimized synthesis indexes for CMC-B and CMC-B-NIPAM.
• Observed steady flow and temperature thickening rheological properties in the 40-70 °C range.
• Demonstrated improved stability of drilling fluid flow patterns compared to traditional fluids.

Conclusions:

• CMC-B-NIPAM exhibits significant temperature sensitivity and desirable rheological behavior for drilling fluids.
• The developed modified bentonite enhances drilling fluid stability across varying temperatures.
• This advancement offers improved safety and economic benefits for water-based drilling operations.