Downhole Device Degradation via Reagent Acceleration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole devices for oil and gas production require costly and time-consuming removal or destruction after operations, as they lack predictable degradation characteristics without additional treatment operations.
Innovation Solution
A downhole device comprising a first degradable material that degrades at a specific rate when exposed to the downhole environment, and a second protected material that accelerates the degradation of the first material when exposed, allowing for controlled and accelerated degradation without additional removal operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a downhole device is made from degradable material to enable removal without additional operations, then the device complexity and removal cost are reduced, but the degradation rate is unpredictable and too slow for timely removal
Solution Approach 1:
A reagent is introduced as an intermediary substance that mediates the degradation process. The reagent, when exposed to downhole fluids, chemically accelerates the degradation of the degradable material, enabling predictable and timely removal of the downhole device without requiring additional mechanical removal operations
Solution Approach 2:
The degradation rate parameter of the downhole device is changed by introducing the reagent. The reagent alters the chemical environment to accelerate degradation from an unpredictable slow rate to a predictable fast rate, allowing the device to degrade within a specific time frame after deployment
2Productivity
If the device degrades too quickly without controlled rate, then removal is fast, but the device cannot complete its operational function before degradation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The degradable material is pre-configured in the downhole device before deployment, but the actual accelerated degradation is triggered only after the device completes its function. The reagent is positioned to be exposed to downhole fluids at a predetermined time, ensuring the device remains intact during operation then degrades rapidly afterward
Solution Approach 2:
The reagent is initially protected or isolated within the device structure and is extracted or exposed to the downhole environment only after the device has served its purpose. This timing mechanism ensures the degradation acceleration occurs at the appropriate moment without compromising operational integrity
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
Enables predictable and efficient degradation of downhole devices, reducing operational costs and time by using reagents to enhance the degradation rate of the device materials, ensuring smooth transition for further operations without obstructions.
Implementation Method 1
a second material protected from the downhole environment, wherein the second material when exposed to the downhole environment degrades the first material at a second rate greater than the first rate
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a downhole device for use in a downhole environment is disclosed, including: a first material with a first degradation rate in the downhole environment and at least one cavity, wherein the at least one cavity contains a second material to degrade the first material at a second degradation rate when the second material is exposed to the downhole environment and the first material, the second degradation rate being higher than the first degradation rate. In certain embodiments, the second material is a solid second material. In certain embodiments, the second material is a gel second material. In certain embodiments the downhole device further includes a protective material to control exposure of the second material to the downhole environment.