Block Polymer Particle Additive for Fluid Loss Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid loss control agents in oil extraction are not always effective, particularly in oil cement grouts, as they can be inhibited by dispersing agents or set retarders, leading to inadequate control of fluid loss and gas migration in subterranean formations.
Innovation Solution
A combination of specific block polymers and particles, such as latex or silica, is used to control fluid loss and gas migration, where the polymer has a short block adsorbed on particles and a long, soluble block providing a gas-barrier effect, forming a 'plug' to block porosities and prevent fluid loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fluid loss control agents are used, then fluid loss control is achieved, but their effectiveness is inhibited by dispersing agents or set retarders present in the formulation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a composite material consisting of a block polymer with distinct functional blocks: one block provides fluid loss control by interacting with rock surfaces, while another block provides compatibility with dispersing agents and set retarders. This composite structure allows the single additive to simultaneously achieve effective fluid loss control and compatibility with other formulation additives that would otherwise inhibit conventional agents.
2Reliability
If fluid loss control additives are added to prevent liquid penetration, then fluid loss is reduced, but gas migration control is also needed to prevent gas penetration into the fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The block polymer additive performs multiple functions simultaneously: it controls fluid loss by forming a protective layer on rock surfaces, controls gas migration by providing a gas-barrier effect, and maintains compatibility with other formulation additives. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate additives for each function, simplifying the overall formulation while achieving comprehensive protection against both liquid and gas penetration.
3Reliability
If fluid loss control agents are used in oil cement grouts, then cement setting is controlled, but excessively rapid setting can occur before the annulus is fully cemented
Solution Approach 1:
The block polymer modifies the physical-chemical parameters of the cement grout system by interacting with both the cement particles and the fluid phase. This interaction changes the setting kinetics of the cement, preventing excessively rapid setting while ensuring proper setting control throughout the cementing operation. The polymer's dual-block structure allows it to modulate setting time parameters without compromising the ultimate strength development of the cement.
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 combination effectively controls fluid loss and gas migration in oil cement grouts, even in the presence of additives that typically inhibit fluid loss control agents, ensuring the stability and integrity of oil extraction wells.
Implementation Method 1
a first block (A) which is adsorbed on at least a portion of the particles (p)
Implementation Method 2
forming a 'plug' to block porosities and prevent fluid loss
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the use of a combination of block polymers and particular compositions in a fluid injected under pressure into an oil-bearing rock, where: the fluid comprises solid particles and/or is brought into contact with solid particles within the oil-bearing rock following the injection thereof, the combination comprises (i) a polymer comprising: —a first block that is adsorbed on at least a portion of the particles; and —a second block, having a composition different from that of the first, and having a weight-average molecular weight of greater than 10 000 g/mol, for example greater than 100 000 g/mol, and that is soluble in the fluid; (ii) particles suitable for providing a gas barrier effect, preferably a latex and/or silica particles.