Polyvalent Cation Reactive Polymer Lost Circulation Materials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lost circulation treatments in subterranean formations require binary, dual-stream delivery of settable lost circulation materials, which can be complex and inefficient, leading to issues like fluid loss during drilling and cement/sealant placement, especially in zones with low pressure or fractures.
Innovation Solution
A treatment fluid comprising a base fluid, a source of polyvalent cations, and a polyvalent cation reactive polymer, which can be introduced as a single stream and allowed to set, utilizing an acid precursor to control the release of polyvalent cations for crosslinking and viscosity increase, thereby preventing fluid loss and enhancing placement in loss zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If binary, dual-stream delivery of settable lost circulation materials is used, then the materials can react quickly to prevent fluid loss, but the delivery process becomes complex and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple components (polymer, crosslinking agent, and initiation system) into a single stream treatment fluid, eliminating the need for complex binary or dual-stream delivery systems while maintaining the rapid setting capability needed to prevent fluid loss
2Reliability
If settable lost circulation materials are delivered separately in binary, dual-stream manner, then quick reaction is achieved, but the treatment fluid may be lost to formation before proper placement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates all necessary reaction components into the treatment fluid before injection, allowing the fluid to be pumped as a complete system that reacts in-situ at the target location, preventing loss to formation during transit while maintaining quick setting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an acid precursor as an intermediary that triggers the crosslinking reaction only after the treatment fluid reaches the desired location, controlling the timing of the setting reaction to prevent premature loss to formation
3Ease of operation
If single stream treatment fluid is used, then pumping process is simplified, but the reaction control and setting time may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-mixes all components in the single stream including the acid precursor, which remains dormant during pumping and only activates the crosslinking reaction after the fluid reaches the target zone, ensuring both operational simplicity and precise reaction control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls the reaction timing by changing the activation parameter - the acid precursor is triggered by specific downhole conditions (temperature, pressure, or contact with formation water) to initiate crosslinking at the optimal moment and location
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 solution allows for effective prevention and mitigation of severe fluid loss, even in challenging conditions, by simplifying the pumping process and ensuring more precise placement of lost circulation materials, and can be used in combination with other materials to improve effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
the acid precursor degrades and releases one or more acids
Implementation Method 2
the one or more acids dissolves the source of the one or more polyvalent cations, thereby releasing the one or more polyvalent cations
Implementation Method 3
the one or more polyvalent cations crosslinks the polyvalent cation reactive polymer, thereby increasing the viscosity of the treatment fluid and causing the treatment fluid to at least partially set
Data Source
AI summary
Compositions and methods involving polyvalent cation reactive polymers for use as lost circulation materials in subterranean treatment operations are provided. In some embodiments, the methods include forming a treatment fluid including a base fluid, a source of a polyvalent cation, a polyvalent cation reactive polymer, and an acid precursor; introducing the treatment fluid into a wellbore penetrating at least a portion of a subterranean formation; and allowing the treatment fluid to at least partially set.