Optimization of Water Based Drilling Fluid Properties with the SiO₂/g-C₃N₄ Hybrid

Drilling fluids are an essential component of drilling operations in the oil and gas industry. Nanotechnology is being used to develop advanced drilling fluid additives. This study looked at the viability of synthesizing SiO₂/g-C₃N₄ hybrid extending the Stober process followed by its addition in different concentrations to water-based drilling fluids and studying impact on the rheological and fluid loss properties of the fluids. The synthesized hybrid was analyzed using XRD, SEM, TGA, and FTIR. Subsequently, it was used to develop the water-based drilling mud formulations and subjected to measurements in accordance with API standard practices. The studies were carried out at various SiO₂/g-C₃N₄ nanoparticle concentrations under before hot rolling (BHR) and after hot rolling (AHR) conditions. The outcomes demonstrated that the rheological and fluid loss properties were enhanced by the addition of SiO₂/g-C₃N₄ nanoparticles, as it worked in synergy with other additives. Additionally, it was discovered that the nanoparticles improved the drilling fluid thermal stability. The experimental findings indicate a significant influence of SiO₂/g-C₃N₄ nanoparticles on base fluid properties including rheology and fluid loss as the most remarkable, especially at higher temperatures. The significant improvements in yield point and 10 s gel strength were 55 and 42.8% under BHR and 216 and 140% under AHR conditions, respectively. Permeability plugging test (PPT) fluid loss was reduced by 69.6 and 87.2% under BHR and AHR conditions, respectively, when 0.5 lb/bbl nanoparticles were used in formulations. As a result, SiO₂/g-C₃N₄ nanomaterial has the potential to be used as drilling fluid additive in water-based drilling fluids.