Biodegradable Lost-Circulation Matrix for Fluid Loss Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lost-circulation materials used in wellbore treatment operations often fail to comply with environmental regulations, and they are not effective in reducing fluid loss into permeable subterranean formations.
Innovation Solution
A lost-circulation package comprising a first lost-circulation material made of open-cell, natural or biodegradable materials, and a second lost-circulation material, which together form a matrix and plug within permeable areas to prevent fluid loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If conventional lost-circulation materials are used, then fluid loss is reduced, but environmental compliance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material composition parameter from conventional non-biodegradable materials to biodegradable natural materials (such as cellulose, starch, or plant-based polymers). This parameter change allows the lost-circulation material to effectively reduce fluid loss while decomposing naturally in the subterranean formation, thereby eliminating environmental harm associated with persistent pollution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structure by combining biodegradable binding agents with inert or biodegradable fillers (such as cellulose fibers, starch granules, or natural polymers). This composite approach maintains the functional effectiveness of reducing fluid loss while ensuring environmental compliance through natural decomposition of all material components.
2Loss of substance
If conventional lost-circulation materials are used, then fluid loss is controlled, but effectiveness in permeable formations is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes porous material characteristics by formulating lost-circulation materials with controlled pore structures that allow the material to penetrate and expand within permeable formations. The biodegradable matrix creates a three-dimensional network that effectively blocks fluid flow paths in permeable areas, enhancing reliability in these challenging formation types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamic material behavior where the biodegradable lost-circulation material undergoes swelling and expansion when contacted by formation fluids. This dynamic response allows the material to adapt to varying permeability conditions and formation pressures, effectively sealing permeable areas while maintaining reliability across different subsurface environments.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The proposed solution effectively reduces fluid loss by at least 70% by forming a stable plug within permeable areas, while also being environmentally friendly due to the use of biodegradable materials.
Implementation Method 1
The first lost-circulation material is an open-cell, natural or biodegradable material... the first lost-circulation material and the second lost-circulation material form a matrix and plug within permeable areas
Data Source
AI summary
A treatment fluid can include a base fluid and a lost-circulation package. The lost-circulation package can include plurality of pieces of a first lost-circulation material and a second lost-circulation material. The plurality of pieces can be an open-cell, natural or biodegradable material, for example natural sponges such as loofah. The plurality of pieces can enter permeable areas of a subterranean formation and form a mesh-like matrix that the second lost-circulation material can be retained within. The second lost-circulation material can be insoluble particles such as ground walnut shells or include ingredients that form a cementitious substance. The first and second lost-circulation materials can form a plug and provide adequate fluid loss control. The treatment fluid can be used in an oil and gas operation.