Antifoam compositions for water-based muds

Abstract

The invention is directed to the use of a composition as antifoam, the composition comprising at least 50%wt of a fluid, the fluid having an initial boiling point and a final boiling point in the range from 100°C to 400°C, said fluid comprising : - from 70% to 98% by weight of isoparaffins, and - from 20 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid. The invention is also directed to an antifoam composition and to a water-based mud comprising the antifoam composition of the invention.

Description

[0001] ANTIFOAM COMPOSITIONS FOR WATER-BASED MUDS

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to an antifoam composition for water-based muds.

[0004] The invention also relates to the use of a biodegradable fluid as antifoam in a water-based formulation, such as a water-based mud, said mud can be used in drilling or in fracturing or completion operations.

[0005] The fluids as used in the invention have a narrow boiling range and a very low aromatic content, and exhibit valuable properties making them especially suited for their use as antifoam agent in waterbased muds. The antifoam-treated water-based mud obtained after adding all its components is particularly suitable for offshore and onshore drilling operations and completion operations.

[0006] The invention also relates to the use of a composition comprising a biodegradable fluid and a boosting additive as antifoam in a water-based formulation, such as a water-based mud, said mud can be used in drilling or in fracturing or completion operations.

[0007] BACKGROUND ART

[0008] Drilling fluids are necessary for drilling activity by acting as a support for drill cuttings, reducing the force of friction between drill pipes and walls and maintaining stability, while cooling and cleaning the borehole. Water-based mud is an environmentally friendly drilling fluid containing a maximum of water and emulsified oil. Foaming of drilling fluids, particularly water-based drilling fluids, is a common problem as the drilling fluid is continuously agitated during circulation. The negative effects of foam include a reduction in the weight and density of the drilling fluid, which can lead to hole problems. In addition, foam reduces the efficiency of the pump, leading to difficulties in cleaning the hole. Excessive foam can also spread into mud wells and constitute a potential pollutant. Therefore, to prevent foaming, it is necessary to add anti-foaming agents to the drilling mud.

[0009] There are a number of silicone-, alcohol- or glycol-based antifoams on the market, but they are generally not long-lasting and can lead to environmental pollution.

[0010] An aim of the invention is to provide an antifoam suitable drilling fluids, specifically for waterbased drilling fluids, that does not have the drawback of existing antifoams.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The invention relates to the use of a composition as antifoam, the composition comprising at least 50%wt of a fluid, the fluid having an initial boiling point and a final boiling point in the range from 100°C to 400°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 98% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 20 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0013] Preferably, the antifoam is used in water-based muds, preferably in water-based drilling muds. Preferably, the fluid has: an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, and / or a boiling range from 5°C to 80°C, preferably from 10°C to 60°C, more preferably from 20°C to 40°C, and / or a kinematic viscosity at 40°C from 1 to 4 mm2 / s, preferably from 1.1 to 3.0 mrtf / s, more preferably from 1 .2 to 2.2 mm2 / s, and / or a flash point of at least 75°C, preferably at least 80°C, and / or a pour point lower than -40°C, preferably lower than -50°C, and / or a flash point lower than 110°C, and / or an aniline point of at least 80°C, and / or a density at 15°C less than 780 kg / m3, more preferably less than 765 kg / m3, and / or a biodegradability at 28 days of at least 60%, as measured according to the OECD 301 B standard

[0014] Preferably, the fluid comprises: from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, preferably from 75 to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, more preferably from 80% to 95%wt of isoparaffins, even more preferably from 85% to 90%wt of isoparaffins, and from 30 to 600 ppm of aromatics, preferably from 30 to 300 ppm of aromatics, more preferably from 30 to 100 ppm of aromatics, even more preferably from 30 to 80 ppm of aromatics, and n-paraffins, preferably in an amount from 1 to 30%wt of n-paraffins, more preferably from 2 to 20%wt of n-paraffins, even more preferably from 3 to 15%wt of n-paraffins, and naphthens, preferably in an amount of less than 5%wt of naphthens, more preferably in an amount from 0.1 to 3%wt of naphthens, even more preferably from 0.5 to 2%wt of naphthens, based on the total weight of the fluid.

[0015] Preferably, the fluid comprises:

[0016] - from 65 to 85%wt of isoparaffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 12 carbon atoms, and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 13 carbon atoms and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0017] - less than 5%wt of isoparaffins having 1 1 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0018] - from 5 to 20%wt of n-paraffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms,

[0019] - less than 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 1 1 carbon atoms, - from 2 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, based on the total weight of the fluid.

[0020] Preferably, the composition comprises at least 60%wt of the fluid, preferably at least 75%wt of the fluid, more preferably at least 85%wt of the fluid, even more preferably from 85% to 100%wt of the fluid, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0021] According to an embodiment, the composition comprises, preferably consists of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid, from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, of an additive different from the fluid.

[0022] Preferably, according to this embodiment, the additive is selected from: mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, polyalkylene glycol optionally esterified, preferably selected from polyethylene glycol oleate, A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farnesene).

[0023] Preferably, according to this embodiment, the composition comprises: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid, from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, of an additive selected from fillers, polyalkylene glycol and polymers, preferably from silicas, polyethylene glycol monooleate and poly(farnesene).

[0024] The invention is also directed to a composition comprising, preferably consisting of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of a fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o a polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene), the fluid having an initial boiling point and a final boiling point in the range from 100°C to 400°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 98% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 20 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0025] The invention is also directed to a composition comprising, preferably consisting of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of a fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene), the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 30 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid. Preferably, the additive of the composition of the invention is selected from: mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate,

[0026] A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farnesene), the additive being preferably selected from silicas, polyethylene glycol monooleate and poly(farn esene).

[0027] Preferably, the fluid of the composition of the invention has one or more of the following features: a boiling range from 5°C to 80°C, preferably from 10°C to 60°C, more preferably from 20°C to 40°C, and / or a kinematic viscosity at 40°C from 1 to 4 mm2 / s, preferably from 1.1 to 3.0 mrtf / s, more preferably from 1 .2 to 2.2 mm2 / s, and / or a flash point of at least 75°C, preferably at least 80°C, and / or a pour point lower than -40°C, preferably lower than -50°C, and / or a flash point lower than 110°C, and / or an aniline point of at least 80°C, and / or a density at 15°C less than 780 kg / m3, more preferably less than 765 kg / m3, and / or a biodegradability at 28 days of at least 60%, as measured according to the OECD 301 B standard, and / or an isoparaffin content ranging from 75 to 95% by weight, preferably from 80% to 95% wt, more preferably from 85% to 90%wt, based on the total weight of the fluid, and / or an aromatic content ranging from 30 to 300 ppm, preferably from 30 to 100 ppm, more preferably from 30 to 80 ppm, based on the total weight of the fluid, and / or an n-paraffin content ranging from 1 to 30%wt, preferably from 2 to 20%wt, more preferably from 3 to 15%wt, based on the total weight of the fluid, and / or a naphthene content of less than 5%wt, preferably from 0.1 to 3%wt, more preferably from 0.5 to 2%wt, based on the total weight of the fluid.

[0028] The invention is also directed to a water-based mud comprising:

[0029] At least 50% by volume of water,

[0030] An antifoam composition comprising : o at least 50%wt of a fluid, based on the total weight of the antifoam composition, the fluid having an initial boiling point and a final boiling point in the range from 100°C to 400°C, said fluid comprising :

[0031] ■ from 70% to 98% by weight of isoparaffins, and

[0032] ■ from 20 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid, o optionally at least one additive different from the fluid, the additive being preferably selected from:

[0033] ■ mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites,

[0034] ■ waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes,

[0035] ■ metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate,

[0036] ■ optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate,

[0037] ■ A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes.

[0038] Preferably, the water-based mud according to the invention comprises: from 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, optionally from 0.1 to 39% by volume of alkaline compound(s), based on the total volume of the water-based mud.

[0039] The present invention allows to reduce the carbon footprint and introduce a sustainable antifoam from a renewable resource, compared to existing antifoams.

[0040] The present invention also allows to provide a bio-sourced fluid derived from non-fossil oils acting as a base oil for the oil-based drilling application, the bio-sourced fluid exhibiting a low kinematic viscosity and a high flash point for improved antifoam performances, excellent compatibility with the drilling fluid additives.

[0041] The present invention thus allows to provide similar or even better antifoam performances than existing antifoams for the same application.

[0042] The fluid according to the invention allows to provide a composition having an improved antifoam property.

[0043] The additive combined with the fluid allows to further improve the antifoam property of the fluid. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0044] A first object of the present invention is the use of a composition as antifoam, preferably as antifoam in water-based muds, more preferably in water-based drilling muds.

[0045] The composition used as antifoam comprises at least 50%wt of a fluid, preferably at least 60%wt, preferably at least 75%wt, more preferably at least 85%wt, even more preferably from 85% to 100%wt, based on the total weight of the composition. According to an embodiment, the fluid may indeed represent 100%wt of the composition.

[0046] Thus, the invention is also directed to the use of the fluid as antifoam, preferably as antifoam in water-based muds, more preferably in water-based drilling muds.

[0047] Fluid

[0048] The fluid has an initial boiling point and a final boiling point in the range from 100°C to 400°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 98% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 20 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid

[0049] According to an embodiment, the fluid has an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 30 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0050] According to an embodiment, the fluid comprises from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, preferably from 80% to 95%wt of isoparaffins, more preferably from 85% to 90%wt of isoparaffins, based on the total weight of the fluid.

[0051] According to an embodiment, the fluid comprises from 30 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, preferably from 30 to 500 ppm by weight of aromatics, more preferably from 30 to 300 ppm by weight of aromatics, even more preferably from 30 to 100 ppm by weight of aromatics, for example from 30 to 80 ppm by weight of aromatics.

[0052] Preferably, the fluid comprises from 1 to 30%wt of n-paraffins, preferably from 2 to 20%wt of n- paraffins, more preferably from 3 to 15%wt of n-paraffins, based on the total weight of the fluid. Preferably, the fluid comprises naphthens, preferably in an amount of less than 5%wt of naphthens, preferably in an amount from 0,01 to 2%wt of n-paraffins, more preferably from 0,05 to 1 %wt of n-paraffins, based on the total weight of the fluid.

[0053] According to a particular embodiment, the fluid comprises:

[0054] - from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, preferably from 80% to 95%wt of isoparaffins, more preferably from 85% to 90%wt of isoparaffins,

[0055] - from 30 to 300 ppm of aromatics, even more preferably from 30 to 100 ppm of aromatics, for example from 30 to 80 ppm of aromatics,

[0056] - from 1 to 30%wt of n-paraffins, preferably from 2 to 20%wt of n-paraffins, more preferably from 3 to 15%wt of n-paraffins,

[0057] - naphthens in an amount of less than 5%wt, preferably in an amount from 0.1 to 3%wt, more preferably from 0.5 to 2%wt, based on the total weight of the fluid.

[0058] The content of isoparaffins, n-paraffins and naphthens can be determined according to well known methods for the skilled person, for example by gas chromatography.

[0059] The content of aromatics can be determined according to well known methods for the skilled person, for example UV spectroscopy.

[0060] According to an embodiment, the fluid has an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C.

[0061] The boiling point of the fluid can be measured according to ASTM D86 standard.

[0062] According to a preferred embodiment, the fluid has an initial boiling point in the range of from 180°C to 230°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 280°C.

[0063] According to a preferred embodiment, the fluid has a boiling range from 5°C to 80°C, preferably from 10°C to 60°C, more preferably from 20°C to 40°C.

[0064] As understood by the skilled person, a boiling range from 5°C to 80°C means that the difference between the final boiling point and the initial boiling point is between 5°C and 80°C.

[0065] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the fluid has an initial boiling point in the range of from 200°C to 230°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 280°C, and the fluid has a boiling range from 20 to 40°C.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the fluid consists of a fraction having an initial boiling point of at least 200°C and a final boiling point of less than 260°C, the fraction preferably having a boiling range from 20 to 40°C.

[0067] According to a preferred embodiment, the compounds having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms represent from 50% to 90% by weight, of the total weight of the fluid.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment, the fluid of the invention comprises: - from 65 to 85%wt of isoparaffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 12 carbon atoms, and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 13 carbon atoms and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0069] - less than 5%wt of isoparaffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 5%wt of isoparaffins having 1 1 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0070] - from 5 to 20%wt of n-paraffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins havign 12 carbon atoms, and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 13 carbon atoms and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0071] - less than 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 1 1 carbon atoms,

[0072] - from 2 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, preferably from 3 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, based on the total weight of the fluid.

[0073] According to an embodiment, the fluid has a kinematic viscosity at 40°C from 1 to 4 mrtf / s, preferably from 1 .1 to 3.0 mm2 / s, more preferably from 1 .2 to 2.2 mm2 / s.

[0074] The kinematic viscosity may be measured according to ASTM D445 standard.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the fluid has a flash point of at least 75°C, preferably at least 80°C, more preferably from 80°C to 110°C, even more preferably from 80°C to 100°C.

[0076] The flash point can be measured according to ASTM D93 standard.

[0077] According to a particular embodiment, the fluid has a flash point from 80°C to 1 10°C and a viscosity ranging from 1 to 4 mm2 / s and the fluid comprises:

[0078] - from 85% to 90%wt of isoparaffins,

[0079] - from 30 to 300 ppm of aromatics,

[0080] - from 3 to 15%wt of n-paraffins,

[0081] - from 0.05 to 1 %wt of naphthens, based on the total weight of the fluid.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the fluid has a pour point of less than -40°C, preferably less than -50°C.

[0083] The pour point can be measured according to ASTM D97 standard.

[0084] According to an embodiment, the fluid has an aniline point of at least 80°C. The aniline point can be measured according to ASTM D611 standard.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the fluid has a density at 15°C inferior or equal to 780 kg / m3, more preferably inferior or equal to 765 kg / m3.

[0086] The density at 15°C can be measured according to ASTM D4052 standard.

[0087] According to a particular embodiment, the fluid has:

[0088] - a kinematic viscosity at 40°C from 1.1 to 3.0 mm2 / s, more preferably from 1.2 to 2.2 mm2 / s, and

[0089] - a flash point ranging from 80°C to 1 10°C, more preferably from 80°C to 100°C.

[0090] The fluid comprises a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms. This content is advantageously higher, in particular equal to or higher than 98% and advantageously it is 100 %.

[0091] The term « biocarbon» indicates that the carbon is of natural origin and is derived from a biomaterial as indicated below. Bio-carbon content and biomaterial content are expressions indicating the same value. A renewable material or biomaterial is an organic material in which the carbon is derived from recently fixed CO2 (on human scale) via photosynthesis with the atmosphere. A biomaterial (Carbon 100 % of natural origin) has a14C Z12C isotopic ratio greater than 10-12, whilst a fossil material has a zero ratio. Isotopic14C is formed in the atmosphere and is therefore integrated via photosynthesis on a time scale of no more than a few tens of years. The half-life of14C is 5730 years. As a result, materials derived from photosynthesis, namely plants in general, necessarily have a maximum content of isotope14C.

[0092] In one embodiment, the14C / 12C isotopic ratio of the fluid of the invention is between 1.15 x 10-12and 1.2 x 1012.

[0093] Determination of the content of biomaterial or bio-carbon can be given in accordance with standards ASTM D 6866-12, method B (ASTM D 6866-06) and ASTM D 7026 (ASTM D 7026-04). Standard ASTM D 6866 concerns « Determining the Biobased Content of Natural Range Materials Using Radiocarbon and Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry Analysis », whilst standard ASTM D 7026 concerns « Sampling and Reporting of Results for Determination of Biobased Content of Materials via Carbon Isotope Analysis ». The second standard mentions the first in the first paragraph thereof.

[0094] The first standard describes a test to measure the14C / 12C ratio of a sample and comparison with the14C / 12C ratio of a reference sample of 100 % renewable origin, to give a relative percentage of C of renewable origin in the sample. The standard is based on the same concept as14C dating, but without applying dating equations. The ratio thus calculated is indicated as «pMC» (percent Modern Carbon). If the material to be analysed is a mixture of biomaterials and fossil materials (without radioactive isotope), the pMC value obtained is directly correlated with the quantity of biomaterial contained in the sample. The reference value used for14C dating is a value dating from the 1950s. The year 1950 was chosen on account of the existence of nuclear testing in the atmosphere which sent large amounts of isotopes into the atmosphere after this date. The 1950 reference corresponds to a pMC value of 100. Having regard to thermonuclear tests, the current value to be retained is about 107.5 (which corresponds to a correction factor of 0.93). The radiocarbon signature of a plant today is therefore 107.5. A signature of 54 pMC and 99 pMC therefore corresponds to a quantity of biomaterial in the sample of 50 % and 93 % respectively.

[0095] Typically, the fluid has a biodegradability at 28 days of at least 60 %, preferably at least 70 %, more preferably at least 75 % and advantageously at least 80 %, the biodegradability being preferably measured according to OECD 301 B method.

[0096] When the biodegradability at 28 days is of at least 60%, the fluid can be named “readily biodegradable”.

[0097] Biodegradation of an organic chemical product refers to reduction of the complexity of the chemical compounds through the metabolic activity of microorganisms.

[0098] The OECD 301 B method is based on the measurement of the evolution of the content of CO2 in the suspension of the sample, according to the following principle:

[0099] A measured volume of a medium, containing a known concentration of test substance (10-20 mg / ) as the sole nominal carbon source, is aerated in the dark or under diffused light, by passing carbon dioxide-free air at a controlled flow rate. Degradation is monitored by analysing the carbon dioxide produced over a period of 28 days. The CO2 is trapped by barium or sodium hydroxide and then is determined by titration of the hydroxide in excess or as inorganic carbon. The amount of carbon dioxide produced by the test substance (corrected by the value obtained for the control containing the inoculum) is expressed as a percentage of the (theoretical) CO2Th.

[0100] The fluid is ideally derived from treatment of used materials of biological origin. The carbon of a biomaterial results from photosynthesis of plants and hence from atmospheric CO2. Degradation (by degradation it is also meant end-of-life combustion / incineration) of these materials to CO2 does not therefore contribute towards global warming since there is no increase in carbon emitted in the atmosphere. The CO2 balance of biomaterials is therefore distinctly better and contributes towards reducing the carbon footprint of the products obtained (solely the energy required for manufacture must be taken into account). On the contrary, a material of fossil origin that has degraded to CO2 will contribute towards increasing CO2 levels and hence to global warming. The fluid of the invention will therefore have a better carbon footprint than that of compounds obtained from a fossil source, as well as a better carbon footprint than that of fluids obtained from unused materials of biological origin.

[0101] Method for obtaining the fluid:

[0102] Said improved fluids can be obtained in the following manner. The fluid can be obtained starting from used biological feedstock, also called used biomass or used material of biological origin, in particular from used cooking oil(s).

[0103] The used cooking oil can be selected from used vegetable oils, used animal fats, used fish oils and mixtures thereof.

[0104] Preferably, the used cooking oil is selected from used vegetable oil. Among vegetable oils, mention may be made of tallow oil, colza oil, sunflower oil, soya oil, flax oil, olive oil, palm oil, castor oil, wood oil, corn oil, squash oil, rapeseed oil, soybean oil, jojoba oil, sesame oil, walnut oil, hazelnut oil, almond oil, shea oil, macadamia oil, cotton oil, alfalfa oil, rye oil, safflower oil, peanut oil, coconut oil and copra oil, and mixtures thereof. Preferably, the vegetable oil is selected from rapeseed oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, palm oil, coconut oil, peanut oil, castor oil, and mixtures thereof.

[0105] More specifically, the fluid can be obtained by a process comprising the following steps: hydrodeoxygenating (HDO) and hydroisomerizing (ISO) a used biomass, preferably a used cooking oil, in order to obtain a hydrodeoxygenated and hydroisomerized used cooking oil, and catalytically hydrogenating the hydrodeoxygenated and hydroisomerized used cooking oil preferably at a temperature from 80 to 180°C, at a pressure from 50 to 160 bars, a liquid hourly space velocity of 0.2 to 5 hr1and an hydrogen treat rate up to 200 Nm3 / ton of feed (the feed being the hydrodeoxygenated and hydroisomerized used cooking oil).

[0106] The hydrodeoxygenation step (HDO) leads to decomposition of the structures of biological esters or triglyceride constituents, to removal of oxygenated, phosphorus- and sulfur-containing compounds, and to hydrogenation of olefinic bonds. This hydrodeoxygenation step (HDO) of the used material of biological origin is followed by isomerization of the product obtained, leading to branching of the hydrocarbon chain and to improved properties of paraffin at low temperature. A fractionating step can preferably follow after the hydrodeoxygenation and isomerization steps. Advantageously, the fractions of interest are then subjected to hydrotreatment and distillation steps to obtain the desired specifications of the fluid of the invention.

[0107] This HDO / ISO process is implemented on used biological feedstock, also called used biomass or used material of biological origin, selected from the group formed by used vegetable oils, animal fats, fish oils and mixtures thereof.

[0108] At the HDO step, hydrogen and the used material of biological origin are passed over a hydrodeoxygenation catalytic bed simultaneously, in the same direction or in counter-current. At the HDO step, the pressure and temperature are respectively between 20 and 150 bar and between 200 and 500°C. Known, conventional hydrodeoxygenation catalysts are used for this step. Optionally, the used material of biological origin, before the HDO step, can be subjected to pre-hydrogenation under mild conditions to prevent secondary reactions of double bonds.

[0109] The product resulting from the hydrodeoxygenation reaction is subjected to an isomerization step (ISO) at which hydrogen and said product, and optionally a mixture of n-paraffins, are passed over isomerization catalytic beds simultaneously, in the same direction or in counter current. At the ISO step, the pressure and temperature are respectively between 20 and 150 bar and between 200 and 500°C. Known, conventional isomerization catalysts are used at this step.

[0110] Additionally, secondary processes can also be applied (e.g. intermediate mixing, scavenging or the like).

[0111] The product resulting from the HDO / ISO steps can optionally be fractionated to obtain the fractions of interest.

[0112] Various HDO / ISO processes are described in the literature. Application WO 2014 / 033762 describes a process comprising a pre-hydrogenation step, a hydrodeoxygenation step (HDO) and an isomerization step conducted in counter current flow. Patent application EP 1728844 describes a method for producing hydrocarbon compounds from a mixture of compounds of vegetable and animal origin. This method comprises a pre-treatment step of the mixture to remove contaminants, e.g. alkali metal salts, followed by a hydrodeoxygenation step (HDO) an isomerization step. Patent application EP 2084245 describes a method for producing a hydrocarbon mixture, which can be used as diesel oil or in a diesel oil composition, via hydrodeoxygenation of a mixture of biological origin containing fatty acid esters optionally in a mixture with free fatty acids, for example vegetable oils such as sunflower seed oil, rapeseed oil, canola oil, palm oil or pine oil, followed by hydroisomerization on specific catalysts. Patent application EP 2368967 describes said method and the product obtained with this method.

[0113] Advantageously, the used material of biological origin contains less than 15 ppm of sulfur, preferably less than 8 ppm, more preferably less than 5 ppm and further preferably less than 1 ppm in accordance with standard EN ISO 20846. Ideally, the used material of biosourced origin used as feedstock does not contain sulfur.

[0114] Before the catalytic hydrogenation step, a pre-fractionating step can be performed. A narrower- cut fraction fed into the hydrogenation unit allows a narrow-cut fraction to be obtained on leaving the unit. The boiling points of pre-fractionated fractions are between 150 and 330°C whilst fractions which have not been pre-fractionated typically have boiling points between 100 and 360°C.

[0115] The deoxygenated, isomerized feedstock derived from the HDO / ISO process is hydrogenated. The hydrogen used in the hydrogenation unit is typically highly purified hydrogen. By highly purified hydrogen it is meant hydrogen having purity higher than 99 % for example, even if other grades could also be used.

[0116] The hydrogenation step is conducted by means of catalysts. Standard hydrogenation catalysts can either be bulk or supported, and may comprise the following metals: nickel, platinum, palladium, rhenium, rhodium, nickel tungstate, nickel-molybdenum, molybdenum, cobalt-molybdenum. The supports can be silica, alumina, silica-alumina or zeolites.

[0117] One preferred catalyst is a nickel-based catalyst on an alumina support having a specific surface area which varies between 100 and 200 m2 / g of catalyst, or a bulk nickel catalyst. Conditions for hydrogenation are typically the following:

[0118] Pressure: 50 to 160 bar, preferably 80 to 150 bar and more preferably 90 to 120 bar; Temperature: 80 to 180°C, preferably 120 to 160°C and more preferably 150 to 160°C;

[0119] Liquid Hourly space velocity (LHSV): 0.2 to 5 hr1, preferably 0.4 to 3 hr1and more preferably 0.5 to 0.8 hr-1 ;

[0120] Hydrogen treatment rate: adapted to the above-mentioned conditions and possibly reaching 200 Nm3 / tonnes of feedstock to be treated.

[0121] The temperature in the reactors is typically between 150 and 160°C with a pressure of about 100 bar, whilst the liquid hourly space velocity is about 0.6 hr1with a treatment rate adapted as a function of the quality of the feedstock to be treated and the parameters of the first hydrogenation reactor.

[0122] Hydrogenation can also take place in one or more reactors in series. The reactors may comprise one or more catalytic beds. The catalytic beds are generally fixed catalytic beds.

[0123] The hydrogenation process is preferably carried out in two or three reactors, preferably in three reactors and more preferably in three reactors in series.

[0124] The first reactor is used for scavenging of sulfur-containing compounds and hydrogenation of essentially all unsaturated compounds and up to about 90 % of aromatic compounds. The product leaving the first reactor contains substantially no sulfur-containing compound. At the second stage i.e. in the second reactor hydrogen of the aromatics is continued and up to 99 % of aromatics are thereby hydrogenated.

[0125] The third stage in the third reactor is a finishing stage allowing contents of aromatics to be obtained of 600 ppm or less, preferably 500 ppm or less, more preferably 300 ppm or less and further preferably 100 ppm or less, and ideally equal to or less than 80 ppm.

[0126] It is possible to use a reactor comprising two, three or more catalytic beds. The catalysts can be in variable amounts possibly being different or essentially the same in each reactor; for three reactors, the amounts as a function of weight can be 0.05-0.5 / 0.10-0.70 / 0.25-0.85 for example, preferably 0.07- 0.25 / 0.15-0.35 / 0.4-0.78 and more preferably 0.10-0.20 / 0.20-0.32 / 0.48-0.70.

[0127] It is also possible to use one or two hydrogenation reactors instead of three.

[0128] It is also possible that the first reactor is composed of twin reactors used alternately. This operating mode particularly allows facilitated loading and unloading of catalysts: when the first reactor comprises the catalyst that is first saturated (substantially all the sulfur is trapped on and / in the catalyst), this catalyst must be changed often.

[0129] A single reactor can also be used in which two, three or more catalytic beds are installed.

[0130] It may be necessary to insert quench boxes (to stifle the reaction) in the recycle system or between the reactors to cool the effluents from one reactor to another or from one catalytic bed to another, to control the temperatures and hydrothermal balance of each reaction. In one preferred embodiment, there are no cooling or quenching intermediates.

[0131] In one embodiment, the product resulting from the process and / or the separated gas(s) are at least partly recycled back into the feed system of the hydrogenation reactors. This dilution contributes towards maintaining the exothermicity of the reaction within controlled limits, in particular at the first stage. In addition, recycling allows heat exchange before the reaction and additionally better control over temperature.

[0132] The effluent from the hydrogenation unit chiefly contains the hydrogenated product and hydrogen. Flash separators are used to separate the effluents into a gas phase, mainly residual hydrogen, and a liquid phase mainly hydrogenated hydrocarbon fractions. This process can be carried out using three flash separators, one at high pressure, one at intermediate pressure and one at low pressure very close to atmospheric pressure.

[0133] The gaseous hydrogen collected data the top of the flash separators can be recycled back to the feed system of the hydrogenation unit, or to different stages in the hydrogenation units between the reactors.

[0134] In one embodiment, the end product is separated at atmospheric pressure. It is then fed directly into a vacuum fractionating unit. Preferably, fractionation is performed at a pressure of between 10 and 50 bar, and more preferably at about 30 bar.

[0135] Fractionation can be performed so that it is possible simultaneously to withdraw various hydrocarbon fluids from the fractionating column, and so that their boiling point is able to be predetermined.

[0136] By adapting the feedstock via the initial and final boiling points thereof, the hydrogenation reactors, separators and fractionating unit can therefore be directly connected without the need for intermediate vessels. This continuity between hydrogenation and fractionation allows optimised thermal integration associated with a reduction in the number items of equipment together with energy savings.

[0137] The fluid of the invention is advantageously a hydrocarbon fraction having an initial boiling point in the range of 180°C to 240°C, preferably 190°C to 230°C and more preferably 200°C to 220°C, and a final boiling point in the range of 240°C to 300°C, preferably 240°C to 280°C. Preferably, the difference between the final boiling point and initial boiling point is from 5°C to 80°C, preferably from 10°C to 60°C, more preferably from 20°C to 40°C. The hydrocarbon oil may comprise one or more fractions having distillation ranges lying within the above ranges.

[0138] According to an embodiment, the process for manufacturing the fluid comprises the following steps: i. hydrodeoxygenating (HDO) and hydroisomerizing (ISO) a used cooking oil in order to obtain a hydrodeoxygenated and hydroisomerized used cooking oil comprising from 70 to 95%wt of isoparaffins based on the total weight of the hydrodeoxygenated and hydroisomerized used cooking oil, said hydrodeoxygenated and hydroisomerized used cooking oil preferably comprising from 1 to 30%wt of n-paraffins based on the total weight of the hydrodeoxygenated and hydroisomerized used cooking oil, ii. catalytically hydrogenating the hydrodeoxygenated and hydroisomerized used cooking oil at a temperature from 80 to 180°C, at a pressure from 50 to 160 bars, a liquid hourly space velocity of 0.2 to 5 hr1and an hydrogen treat rate up to 200 Nm3 / ton of feed (the feed being the hydrodeoxygenated and hydroisomerized used cooking oil) in order to reduce the aromatic content of the hydrodeoxygenated and hydroisomerized used cooking oil in such a manner that the aromatic content ranges from 30 to 600 ppm, and fractioning step performed between step i) and step ii) and / or after step ii) in order to obtain a cut having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C.

[0139] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the invention is directed to the use of a fluid as antifoam, wherein the compounds having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms represent from 50% to 90% by weight of the total weight of the fluid.

[0140] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the invention is directed to the use of a fluid as antifoam, the fluid having a flash point ranging from 80°C to 1 10°C, even more preferably from 80°C to 100°C.

[0141] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the invention is directed to the use of a fluid as antifoam, wherein the fluid comprises:

[0142] - from 65 to 85%wt of isoparaffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 12 carbon atoms, and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 13 carbon atoms and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0143] - less than 5%wt of isoparaffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 5%wt of isoparaffins having 1 1 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0144] - from 5 to 20%wt of n-paraffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins havign 12 carbon atoms, and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 13 carbon atoms and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0145] - less than 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 1 1 carbon atoms,

[0146] - from 2 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, preferably from 3 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, based on the total weight of the fluid.

[0147] The inventors found that the fluid alone has antifoam properties.

[0148] The composition used as antifoam is also named the antifoam composition.

[0149] According to an embodiment, the composition used as antifoam further comprises at least one additive different from the fluid. The inventors found that an additive can be added to boost the antifoam efficiency of the fluid.

[0150] According to an embodiment, the composition used as antifoam comprises: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid as defined in the invention, from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, of an additive different from the fluid.

[0151] The additive may be selected from: mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, more preferably silicas, waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, polyalkylene glycol that are optionally esterified, preferably selected from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate,

[0152] A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farnesene).

[0153] According to an embodiment, the additive is selected from polymeres having a number average molar mass ranging from 10,000 to 120,000 g / mol, preferably from 10,000 to 95000 g / mol.

[0154] Preferably, the additive is selected from poly (farnesene) polymer having a number average molar mass ranging from 10,000 to 120,000 g / mol, preferably from 10,000 to 95000 g / mol.

[0155] The poly (farnesene) that can be implemented in the present invention is typically a farnesene polymer which may be partially or fully hydrogenated and / or which may be functionalised, in particular at the end of the chain, for example by hydroxyl groups.

[0156] Farnesene exists in the form of different isomers, such as alpha-farnesene and beta-farnesene.

[0157] According to the invention, the poly (farnesene) has a number average molar mass ranging from 10,000 to 120,000 g / mol, preferably from 20,000 to 110,000 g / mol, more preferably from 30,000 to 100,000 g / mol, preferentially from 40,000 to 90,000 g / mol, more preferentially from 50,000 to 80,000 g / mol. According to one embodiment, the poly (farnesene) has a number average molar mass ranging from 10,000 to 90,000 g / mol, preferably from 20,000 to 80,000 g / mol. The number average molar mass can be measured by means of chromatography over permeable gel ("gel permeation chromatography" as per accepted terminology), by using polystyrene standards. The poly (farnesene) used in the invention may exhibit a viscosity at 25°C ranging from 20,000 to 1 ,000,000 mPa.s, preferably from 50,000 to 800,000 mPa.s, more preferably from 100,000 to 600,000 mPa.s.

[0158] Typically, the polymer used in the invention is a homopolymer of beta-farnesene. The poly (farnesene) used according to the invention may be functionalised at the chain -end, for example with one or two hydroxyl functions.

[0159] According to one particular embodiment, the poly (farnesene) used according to the invention is partially or fully hydrogenated. The term “partially hydrogenated poly (farnesene)” is used to refer to a poly (farnesene) that comprises at least one unsaturation but whereof a portion of the unsaturations has been hydrogenated. The term “fully hydrogenated poly (farnesene)” is used to refer to a saturated poly (farnesene) which no longer comprises unsaturations.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the polymer used in the invention is a fully hydrogenated poly (farnesene).

[0161] The inventors have discovered that the poly (farnesene) having a number average molar mass ranging from 10,000 to 120,000 g / mol, in particular from 10,000 to 90,000 g / mol, effectively served to enhance the antifoam property of the fluid.

[0162] Manufacturing method for manufacturing the poly (farnesene) polymer:

[0163] The poly (farnesene) is obtained from farnesene derived from biological sources. Farnesene may be obtained from insects or plants or by culturing microorganisms. Farnesene derived from biological sources is commercially available, for example from the company Amyris.

[0164] The poly (farnesene) may be obtained by any known method of polymerisation, for example by anionic polymerisation which serves to enable more precise control of the molecular mass of the polymer obtained. The polymerisation may be carried out in batch or continuous process with the progressive addition of the possible initiator, the monomers, and the possible solvent.

[0165] The temperature during the polymerisation process may range from -80 to 80°C.

[0166] The poly (farnesene) may be obtained by a method described in the application WO2018 / 052709, from page 5, line 3 to page 6, line 17.

[0167] According to an embodiment, the additive is selected from optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate.

[0168] The polyalkylene glycol, preferably the polyethylene glycol, may have for example a molecular weight ranging from 100 to 500 g / mol, preferably from 150 to 300 g / mol.

[0169] According to an embodiment, the additive is selected from silicas, preferably from fumed silicas.

[0170] According to an embodiment, the composition used as antifoam consists of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene).

[0171] According to an embodiment, the composition used as antifoam consists of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from silicas, polyethylene glycol monooleate and poly(farnesene).

[0172] The invention is also directed to a composition comprising: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of a fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene), the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 30 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0173] The fluid implemented in the composition of the invention may have one or more of the features defined above in relation to the fluid used in the antifoam composition.

[0174] Preferably, the additive of the composition of the invention is selected from: mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate,

[0175] A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farnesene), the additive being preferably selected from silicas, polyethylene glycol monooleate and poly(farn esene).

[0176] The additive implemented in the composition of the invention may have one or more of the features defined above in relation to the additive used in the antifoam composition.

[0177] According to an embodiment, the composition of the invention consists of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of a fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene), the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 30 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0178] According to an embodiment, the composition of the invention comprises, preferably consists of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of a fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from silicas, polyethylene glycol monooleate and poly(farnesene), the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 30 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0179] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the composition of the invention comprises, preferably consists of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of a fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene), the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising :

[0180] - from 65 to 85%wt of isoparaffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 12 carbon atoms, and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 13 carbon atoms and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0181] - less than 5%wt of isoparaffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 5%wt of isoparaffins having 1 1 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0182] - from 5 to 20%wt of n-paraffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins havign 12 carbon atoms, and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 13 carbon atoms and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0183] - less than 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 1 1 carbon atoms,

[0184] - from 2 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, preferably from 3 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0185] According to an embodiment, the composition of the invention comprises, preferably consists of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of a fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from silicas, polyethylene glycol monooleate and poly(farnesene), the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising :

[0186] - from 65 to 85%wt of isoparaffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 12 carbon atoms, and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 13 carbon atoms and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0187] - less than 5%wt of isoparaffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 5%wt of isoparaffins having 1 1 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0188] - from 5 to 20%wt of n-paraffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins havign 12 carbon atoms, and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 13 carbon atoms and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 14 carbon atoms, - less than 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0189] - from 2 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, preferably from 3 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0190] Water-based mud

[0191] The invention is also directed to a water-based mud comprising the antifoam composition defined in the invention.

[0192] The water-based mud of the invention comprises:

[0193] At least 50% by volume of water, a composition comprising : o at least 50%wt of a fluid, the fluid having an initial boiling point and a final boiling point in the range from 100°C to 400°C, said fluid comprising :

[0194] ■ from 70% to 98% by weight of isoparaffins, and

[0195] ■ from 20 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid, o optionally at least one additive different from the fluid, the additive being preferably selected from:

[0196] ■ mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites,

[0197] ■ waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes,

[0198] ■ metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate,

[0199] ■ optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate,

[0200] ■ A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes.

[0201] The composition of the water-based mud is also named antifoam composition.

[0202] The fluid implemented in the water-based mud of the invention may have one or more of the features defined above in relation to the fluid used in the antifoam composition. The additive implemented in the water-based mud of the invention may have one or more of the features defined above in relation to the additive used in the antifoam composition.

[0203] The water-based mud can be prepared according to well known methods. The antifoam composition can be added at any time during the manufacting process of the water-based mud.

[0204] According to an embodiment, the antifoam composition implemented in the water-based mud comprises 100%wt of the fluid defined in the invention.

[0205] According to another embodiment, the antifoam composition implemented in the water-based mud comprises, preferably consists of, based on the total weight of the antifoam composition: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid defined in the invention, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene).

[0206] According to an embodiment, the antifoam composition implemented in the water-based mud comprises, preferably consists of, based on the total weight of the antifoam composition: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of a fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene), the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising :

[0207] - from 65 to 85%wt of isoparaffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 12 carbon atoms, and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 13 carbon atoms and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0208] - less than 5%wt of isoparaffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 5%wt of isoparaffins having 1 1 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0209] - from 5 to 20%wt of n-paraffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins havign 12 carbon atoms, and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 13 carbon atoms and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0210] - less than 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 1 1 carbon atoms,

[0211] - from 2 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, preferably from 3 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0212] According to an embodiment, the antifoam composition implemented in the water-based mud comprises, preferably consists of, based on the total weight of the antifoam composition: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of a fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from silicas, polyethylene glycol monooleate and poly(farnesene), the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising :

[0213] - from 65 to 85%wt of isoparaffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 12 carbon atoms, and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 13 carbon atoms and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 14 carbon atoms, - less than 5%wt of isoparaffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 5%wt of isoparaffins having 1 1 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0214] - from 5 to 20%wt of n-paraffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins havign 12 carbon atoms, and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 13 carbon atoms and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0215] - less than 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 1 1 carbon atoms,

[0216] - from 2 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, preferably from 3 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0217] The water-based mud of the invention may further comprise other additive(s) capable of adjusting the pH and / or the density and / or the viscosity and / or the pour point of the water-based mud.

[0218] According to an embodiment, the water-based mud comprises from 0.1 to 10% by volume, preferably from 0.5 to 5% by volume, of the antifoam composition, based on the total volume of the water-based mud.

[0219] According to an embodiment, the water-based mud further comprises an alkaline compound, such as calcium carbonate (CaCO3).

[0220] According to an embodiment, the water-based mud comprises:

[0221] From 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, optionally from 0.1 to 39% by volume of alkaline compound(s), based on the total volume of the water-based mud.

[0222] According to an embodiment, the water-based mud comprises:

[0223] From 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, optionally from 0.1 to 39% by volume of alkaline compound(s), based on the total volume of the water-based mud, the antifoam composition comprising 100%wt of the fluid defined in the invention, the fluid having preferably a flash point ranging from 80°C to 110°C, even more preferably from 80°C to 100°C.

[0224] According to another embodiment, the water-based mud comprises:

[0225] From 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, optionally from 0.1 to 39% by volume of alkaline compound(s), based on the total volume of the water-based mud, the antifoam composition comprising, based on the total weight of the antifoam composition: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid defined in the invention, the fluid having preferably a flash point ranging from 80°C to 110°C, even more preferably from 80°C to 100°C, from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene).

[0226] According to an embodiment, the water-based mud comprises:

[0227] From 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, from 0.1 to 30% by volume, preferably from 0.5 to 20% by volume, more preferably from 1 to 15% by volume of calcium carbonate, based on the total volume of the water-based mud.

[0228] According to an embodiment, the water-based mud comprises:

[0229] From 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, from 0.1 to 30% by volume, preferably from 0.5 to 20% by volume, more preferably from 1 to 15% by volume of calcium carbonate, based on the total volume of the water-based mud, the antifoam composition comprising 100%wt of the fluid defined in the invention, the fluid having preferably a flash point ranging from 80°C to 110°C, even more preferably from 80°C to 100°C.

[0230] According to another embodiment, the water-based mud comprises:

[0231] From 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, from 0.1 to 30% by volume, preferably from 0.5 to 20% by volume, more preferably from 1 to 15% by volume of calcium carbonate, based on the total volume of the water-based mud, the antifoam composition comprising, based on the total weight of the antifoam composition: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid defined in the invention, the fluid having preferably a flash point ranging from 80°C to 110°C, even more preferably from 80°C to 100°C, from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene).

[0232] According to an embodiment, the water-based mud comprises:

[0233] From 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, from 0.1 to 30% by volume, preferably from 0.5 to 20% by volume, more preferably from 1 to 15% by volume of calcium carbonate, based on the total volume of the water-based mud, the antifoam composition comprising 100%wt of the fluid defined in the invention, the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 30 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0234] According to another embodiment, the water-based mud comprises:

[0235] From 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, from 0.1 to 30% by volume, preferably from 0.5 to 20% by volume, more preferably from 1 to 15% by volume of calcium carbonate, based on the total volume of the water-based mud, the antifoam composition comprising, based on the total weight of the antifoam composition: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid defined in the invention, from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene), the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 30 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid. According to an embodiment, the water-based mud comprises:

[0236] From 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, from 0.1 to 30% by volume, preferably from 0.5 to 20% by volume, more preferably from 1 to 15% by volume of calcium carbonate, based on the total volume of the water-based mud, the antifoam composition comprising 100%wt of the fluid defined in the invention, the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising :

[0237] - from 65 to 85%wt of isoparaffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 12 carbon atoms, and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 13 carbon atoms and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0238] - less than 5%wt of isoparaffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 5%wt of isoparaffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0239] - from 5 to 20%wt of n-paraffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins havign 12 carbon atoms, and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 13 carbon atoms and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0240] - less than 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0241] - from 2 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, preferably from 3 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0242] According to another embodiment, the water-based mud comprises:

[0243] From 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, from 0.1 to 30% by volume, preferably from 0.5 to 20% by volume, more preferably from 1 to 15% by volume of calcium carbonate, based on the total volume of the water-based mud, the antifoam composition comprising, based on the total weight of the antifoam composition: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid defined in the invention, from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene), the fluid having an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, said fluid comprising :

[0244] - from 65 to 85%wt of isoparaffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 12 carbon atoms, and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 13 carbon atoms and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0245] - less than 5%wt of isoparaffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 5%wt of isoparaffins having 1 1 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,

[0246] - from 5 to 20%wt of n-paraffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins havign 12 carbon atoms, and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 13 carbon atoms and 1 to 9%wt of n-paraffins having 14 carbon atoms,

[0247] - less than 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms, preferably from 0.1 to 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 1 1 carbon atoms,

[0248] - from 2 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, preferably from 3 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

[0249] Applications The present invention is also directed to the use of the antifoam composition defined in the invention in a water-based composition, preferably in order to reduce the foaming properties of the water-based composition.

[0250] The present invention is also directed to the use of the fluid defined in the invention in a waterbased composition, preferably in order to reduce the foaming properties of the water-based composition.

[0251] The present invention is also directed to the use of an additive in combination with the fluid of the invention in order to improve the antifoam property of the fluid in a water-based composition, the additive being selected from: mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate,

[0252] A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farnesene).

[0253] The additive can be named boosting additive. The additive in this use of the invention is as defined in the framework of the antifoam composition of the invention, such that the additive may be according to the embodiments defined above in relation to the antifoam composition.

[0254] In the applications of the invention, the water-based composition can be a water-based mud, the water-based mud can be used in drilling or in fracturing or completion operations, preferably in drilling operations.

[0255] The present invention is also directed to a process of reducing foaming of a water-based mud, the process comprising a step of mixing the antifoam composition defined in the invention with the rest of the water-based mud.

[0256] Typically, the water-based mud recovered at the end of the process has improved antifoam performances.

[0257] According to a particular embodiment, the water-based mud obtained at the end of the process of the invention comprises one or more of the features defined for the water-based mud of the invention.

[0258] The following example illustrates the invention without limiting it. EXAMPLES

[0259] The invention is now described with the help of the following examples, which are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, but are incorporated to illustrate advantages of the present invention and best mode to perform it.

[0260] Example 1 : Antifoam compositions

[0261] Antifoam compositions were prepared with the following ingredients:

[0262] Fluid 1 (according to the invention): it is based on used cooking oil and obtained from HDO / ISO of used cooking oil followed by hydrogenation and has the features detailed in table 1 .

[0263] Fluid 2 (according to the invention): it is obtained by HDO / ISO of a biomass followed by hydrogenation and has the features detailed in table 1 .

[0264] Fluid 3 (according to the invention): it is based on used cooking oil and obtained from HDO / ISO followed by hydrogenation and has the features detailed in table 1 .

[0265] Plant oil: it comprises 60%wt of C15-C19 paraffins and 40%wt of fully hydrogenated poly(farnesene) having a molecular weight of about 70000 g / mol. The plant oil has the features detailed in table 1.

[0266] Silicas: fumed silica after treated with a polydimethylsiloxane.

[0267] PEG200 monooleate: monooleate of polyethylene glycol wherein polyethylene glycol has a molar mass of around 200 g / mol.

[0268] Isohexadecane: C16 hydrocarbons of fossil origin (no biocarbon).

[0269] Isododecane: C12 hydrocarbons of fossil origin (no biocarbon).

[0270] Mineral oil: mineral oil having a kinematic viscosity at 40°C of 15 cSt.

[0271] The following standards have been used to determine the following properties:

[0272] Density at 15°C ASTM D4052

[0273] Aniline point ASTM D611

[0274] Pour point ASTM D97

[0275] Flash point ASTM D93 (PMCC) or ISO 2719

[0276] Viscosity at 40°C ASTM D445

[0277] Aromatic content UV spectroscopy

[0278] Atmospheric distillation ASTM D86 TABLE 1 n.d. = not determined

[0279] The following antifoam compositions (AC) have been prepared:

[0280] AC1 : 100%wt of the fluid 1 of the invention detailed in table 1.

[0281] AC2: 100%wt of the fluid 2 of the invention detailed in table 1.

[0282] AC3: 95%wt of the fluid of the invention detailed in table 1 and 5%wt of silicas.

[0283] AC4: 50%wt of the fluid 1 of the invention detailed in table 1 and 50%wt of PEG200 monooleate.

[0284] AC5: 90%wt of the fluid 1 of the invention detailed in table 1 and 10%wt of the plant oil detailed in table 1 .

[0285] AC6: 100%wt of the fluid 3 of the invention detailed in table 1.

[0286] Comparative antifoam compositions (CAC) have been prepared:

[0287] CAC1 : 100%wt of isododecane.

[0288] CAC2: 100%wt of isohexadecane.

[0289] CAC3: 100%wt of mineral oil.

[0290] Example 2: Comparison of antifoam properties

[0291] The antifoam properties of antifoam compositions detailed in example 1 were evaluated with the following procedure.

[0292] 50g of water is weighed and placed in a burette. A 1 % by weight foaming agent is added into the burette. The foaming agent used is Simulsol SL10 from Seppic. Anti-foaming canditat (as detailed in example 1) is then added at 2% by weight. The burette was then closed with a flexible film and 15 horizontal shakes were performed. The height of the foam was measured (in mm) at t=0 (after shaking), at t=5min, then at t = 10 min. The measured height is indicated in Table 2.

[0293] TABLE 2

[0294] It can be seen that the fluid according to the invention has antifoam properties (see AC1 , AC2 and AC3). Additionally, the antifoam properties of the fluid of the invention are better than the antifoam properties of hydrocarbon fluids of fossil origin having similar carbon atom number distribution. Indeed, AC1 can be compared with CAC1 and AC2 can be compared with CAC2 and it is observed that after 10 min, the antifoam properties are better with AC1 and AC2 than with CAC1 and CAC2 respectively. These results show that the higher content of biocarbon provides an improvement of the antifoam properties.

[0295] Example 2: Preparation of a water-based mud

[0296] Table 3 shows a mud composition of 9.5 ppg density. The ingredients were mixed as per the corresponding time and mixing order shown below in table 3.

[0297] Multimixer was used to mix and formulate the fluid in line with API recommendations of 11500 ± 300 rpm without shear. Each formulation was calculated and prepared in one lab barrel (350 mL) for operational convenience. Both Before and After Hot Rolling (BHR and AHR) fluids were evaluated, and the hot rolling condition was set at 65.56°C (150°F) for 16hrs under pressurized conditions. TABLE 3

[0298] Example 3: Antifoam properties

[0299] In order to generate the foam in the mud system, 3%wt Sensio D (foaming agent) has been added to the mud (detailed in Example 2). After that, 100 ml mud was taken and 1 ml of the antifioam composition AC5 (detailed in Example 1) is added to the mud. The initial and final foam height were taken before and after adding the antifoam. After 15mins buffer time of adding antifoam, the reduction in foam height has been checked. The following table 4 shows the percentage of reduction of the foam height after adding the antifoam.

[0300] Comparative antifoams traditionally used as antifoam in water-based muds were also tested: Comp.1 : antifoam based on polyoxyalkylene having aspecific gravity of 1 .02 kg / m3 (ASTM D4052) and a flash point higher than 93°C (ASTM D93)

[0301] Comp.2: liquid antifoam based on alcohols having a specific gravity of 0.8-1.1 kg / m3 (ASTM D4052) and a flash point higher than 100°C (ASTM D93)

[0302] Comp.3: liquid antifoam based on glycols having a specific gravity of 0.9-1.1 kg / m3 (ASTM D4052) and a flash point higher than 100°C (ASTM D93)

[0303] TABLE 4

[0304] It can be observed that the antifoam composition of the invention AC5 provides better antifoam properties than commercial antifoam compositions.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Use of a composition as antifoam, the composition comprising at least 50%wt of a fluid, the fluid having an initial boiling point and a final boiling point in the range from 100°C to 400°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 98% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 20 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

2. Use according to claim 1 , wherein the antifoam is used in water-based muds, preferably in water-based drilling muds.

3. Use according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fluid has: an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, and / or a boiling range from 5°C to 80°C, preferably from 10°C to 60°C, more preferably from 20°C to 40°C, and / or a kinematic viscosity at 40°C from 1 to 4 mm2 / s, preferably from 1.1 to 3.0 mrtf / s, more preferably from 1 .2 to 2.2 mm2 / s, and / or a flash point of at least 75°C, preferably at least 80°C, and / or a pour point lower than -40°C, preferably lower than -50°C, and / or a flash point lower than 110°C, and / or an aniline point of at least 80°C, and / or a density at 15°C less than 780 kg / m3, more preferably less than 765 kg / m3.

4. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the fluid comprises : from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, preferably from 75 to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, more preferably from 80% to 95%wt of isoparaffins, even more preferably from 85% to 90%wt of isoparaffins, from 30 to 600 ppm of aromatics, preferably from 30 to 300 ppm of aromatics, more preferably from 30 to 100 ppm of aromatics, even more preferably from 30 to 80 ppm of aromatics, n-paraffins, preferably in an amount from 1 to 30%wt of n-paraffins, more preferably from 2 to 20%wt of n-paraffins, even more preferably from 3 to 15%wt of n-paraffins,naphthens, preferably in an amount of less than 5%wt of naphthens, more preferably in an amount from 0.1 to 3%wt of naphthens, even more preferably from 0.5 to 2%wt of naphthens, based on the total weight of the fluid.

5. Use according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid has a biodegradability at 28 days of at least 60%, as measured according to the OECD 301 B standard.

6. Use according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid comprises:- from 65 to 85%wt of isoparaffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 12 carbon atoms, and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 13 carbon atoms and 10 to 40%wt of isoparaffins having 14 carbon atoms,- less than 5%wt of isoparaffins having 1 1 carbon atoms or less than 11 carbon atoms,- from 5 to 20%wt of n-paraffins having from 12 to 14 carbon atoms,- less than 2%wt of n-paraffins having 11 carbon atoms or less than 1 1 carbon atoms,- from 2 to 9%wt of isoparaffins having 15 carbon atoms or more than 15 carbon atoms, based on the total weight of the fluid.

7. Use according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises at least 60%wt of the fluid, preferably at least 75%wt of the fluid, more preferably at least 85%wt of the fluid, even more preferably from 85% to 100%wt of the fluid, based on the total weight of the composition.

8. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the composition comprises, preferably consists of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid, from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, of an additive different from the fluid.

9. Use according to claim 8, wherein the additive is selected from: mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, polyalkylene glycol optionally esterified, preferably selected from polyethylene glycol oleate,A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farnesene).

10. Use according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the composition comprises: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of the fluid, from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, of an additive selected from fillers, polyalkylene glycol and polymers, preferably from silicas, polyethylene glycol monooleate and poly(farnesene).

11. A composition comprising, preferably consisting of: from 60 to 99%wt, preferably from 70 to 98%wt, more preferably from 75 to 95%wt, of a fluid, and from 1 to 40%wt, preferably from 2 to 30%wt, more preferably from 5 to 25%wt, at least one additive selected from : o mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, o waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, o metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, o optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate, o A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farn esene), the fluid having an initial boiling point and a final boiling point in the range from 100°C to 400°C, said fluid comprising : from 70% to 98% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 20 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid.

12. The composition according to claim 11 , wherein the fluid has an initial boiling point in the range of from 150°C to 240°C and a final boiling point in the range of from 240°C to 300°C, and wherein the fluid comprises : from 70% to 95% by weight of isoparaffins, and from 30 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid.

13. The composition according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the additive is selected from: mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites, waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes, metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate, optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate, more preferably from polyethylene glycol monooleate,A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes, more preferably from poly(farnesene), the additive being preferably selected from silicas, polyethylene glycol monooleate and poly(farn esene).

14. The composition according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the fluid has one or more of the following features: a boiling range from 5°C to 80°C, preferably from 10°C to 60°C, more preferably from 20°C to 40°C, and / or a kinematic viscosity at 40°C from 1 to 4 mm2 / s, preferably from 1.1 to 3.0 mrtf / s, more preferably from 1 .2 to 2.2 mm2 / s, and / or a flash point of at least 75°C, preferably at least 80°C, and / or a pour point lower than -40°C, preferably lower than -50°C, and / or a flash point lower than 110°C, and / or an aniline point of at least 80°C, and / or a density at 15°C less than 780 kg / m3, more preferably less than 765 kg / m3, and / or a biodegradability at 28 days of at least 60%, as measured according to the OECD 301 B standard, and / or an isoparaffin content ranging from 75 to 95% by weight, preferably from 80% to 95% wt, more preferably from 85% to 90%wt, based on the total weight of the fluid, and / or an aromatic content ranging from 30 to 300 ppm, preferably from 30 to 100 ppm, more preferably from 30 to 80 ppm, based on the total weight of the fluid, and / or an n-paraffin content ranging from 1 to 30%wt, preferably from 2 to 20%wt, more preferably from 3 to 15%wt, based on the total weight of the fluid, and / or a naphthene content of less than 5%wt, preferably from 0.1 to 3%wt, more preferably from 0.5 to 2%wt, based on the total weight of the fluid.

15. A water-based mud comprising:At least 50% by volume of water,An antifoam composition comprising : o at least 50%wt of a fluid, based on the total weight of the antifoam composition, the fluid having an initial boiling point and a final boiling point in the range from 100°C to 400°C, said fluid comprising :■ from 70% to 98% by weight of isoparaffins, and■ from 20 to 600 ppm by weight of aromatics, based on the total weight of the fluid, said fluid comprising a biocarbon content of at least 95% by weight based on the total weight of the carbon atoms of the fluid, o optionally at least one additive different from the fluid, the additive being preferably selected from:■ mineral fillers preferably selected from clays, montmorillonites, aluminium silicates, silicas and hectorites,■ waxes preferably selected from vegetable waxes, animal waxes, ozokerites and ceresin waxes,■ metal oxide preferably selected from metal stearate, more preferably from zinc stearate, aluminium stearate and calcium stearate,■ optionally-esterified polyalkylene glycol, preferably from polyethylene glycol oleate,■ A polymer preferably selected from polyterpenes.

16. The water-based mud according to the preceding claim, comprisingFrom 60 to 99% by volume, preferably from 65 to 95% by volume, more preferably from 70 to 90% by volume, of water, from 0.1 to 10% by volume of the antifoam composition, optionally from 0.1 to 39% by volume of alkaline compound(s), based on the total volume of the water-based mud.

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