Degradable Fiber Composite for Lost Circulation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lost-circulation materials may not effectively prevent fluid loss into highly-permeable subterranean formations, leading to significant fluid loss during oil and gas operations, especially in large openings where a complete plug is not formed.
Innovation Solution
A treatment fluid comprising a base fluid, a plurality of degradable first-type fibers, a plurality of second-type fibers, and a third lost-circulation material, such as ground oyster shells, which synergistically inhibit fluid penetration into the formation, reducing fluid loss across various opening sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If single-type lost-circulation materials are used, then the material composition is simple, but fluid loss prevention effectiveness is insufficient in highly-permeable formations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two different types of fibers (first-type and second-type) with distinct properties to create a composite lost-circulation material system. The first-type fiber provides initial bridging while the second-type fiber enhances plug formation, creating a synergistic effect that improves fluid loss prevention beyond what single materials can achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The lost-circulation material is segmented into different functional components: first-type fibers for initial response, second-type fibers for enhanced plugging, and optional degradable materials for temporary control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally in the fluid loss prevention process.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If degradable fibers are used, then environmental compatibility improves, but structural stability of the plug may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes changes in fiber degradation parameters over time. The degradable first-type fibers provide initial bridging and then gradually break down, while the second-type fibers maintain structural integrity. This parameter change allows the system to transition from temporary to sustained plugging while maintaining environmental compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The degradable fibers provide beforehand cushioning by initially forming a bridging structure that slows fluid loss, allowing time for the second-type fibers to establish a more permanent plug. This staged approach cushions the system against immediate fluid loss while transitioning to long-term stability.
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 of fibers and lost-circulation materials significantly reduces fluid loss, maintaining the treatment fluid within the wellbore and preventing its penetration into the subterranean formation, even in large permeable areas, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of degradable first-type fibers
Implementation Method 2
These fibers and the lost-circulation material can be used to treat lost circulation in a wellbore by forming a bridge across a formation opening
Data Source
AI summary
A treatment fluid comprising: a base fluid; a plurality of a first type of fiber, wherein the first type of fiber is degradable; a plurality of a second type of fiber; and a third lost-circulation material, wherein the first type of fibers, the second type of fibers, and the third lost-circulation material inhibit or prevent some or all of the treatment fluid from penetrating into a subterranean formation from a wellbore, wherein the wellbore penetrates the subterranean formation.