Shape-Change Particle Plug for Downhole Fluid Loss Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the downhole drilling and completions industry, undesirable fluid flow paths and leaks occur in structures such as borehole walls and tubular strings, leading to fluid loss into the surrounding formation, for which existing solutions are inadequate.
Innovation Solution
The use of shape-change particles that transition from a compacted to an expanded configuration upon exposure to a stimulus, such as temperature changes, to form a plug that inhibits fluid flow through the formation, preventing fluid loss by packing tightly together and blocking the flow path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional loss circulation materials are used to seal fluid flow paths, then some fluid loss prevention is achieved, but the sealing capability is insufficient and fluid loss continues through the formation
Solution Approach 1:
The particles transition from a first shape during pumping to a second shape upon deposition in the formation, allowing them to adapt dynamically to the flow path geometry and form an effective seal. This shape transformation enables the particles to optimize their sealing configuration after deposition, significantly improving sealing reliability compared to static traditional materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The particles undergo a parameter change in their physical shape from a compact first shape to an expanded second shape. This parameter transformation allows the particles to increase their volume and surface area after deposition, creating a more effective barrier against fluid loss into the formation.
2Productivity
If particles are pumped downhole in a compact shape, then efficient transport through the drill string is achieved, but the particles occupy less volume and provide insufficient sealing when deposited
Solution Approach 1:
The particles are prepared in a compact first shape before pumping to facilitate efficient transport through the drill string and wellbore. This preliminary compact configuration allows the particles to be pumped effectively without agglomeration or flow restrictions, while the sealing action is deferred until deposition occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The particles dynamically transform from a compact transport configuration to an expanded sealing configuration upon deposition in the formation. This dynamic shape change allows the system to optimize for both transport efficiency and sealing effectiveness at different stages of the process.
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
Effectively seals off undesirable fluid flow paths, preventing fluid loss and enhancing the sealing capabilities beyond traditional loss circulation materials by forming a stable plug that blocks fluid permeation.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of shape-change particles; the shape-change particles operatively arranged to transition between a first shape and a second shape upon exposure to a corresponding transition stimulus
Data Source
AI summary
A method of inhibiting an undesirable fluid flow path, including pumping a flow of fluid downhole, the flow of fluid containing a plurality of shape-change particles; depositing the shape-change particles in an undesirable fluid flow path in a downhole structure; transitioning the shape-change particles from a first shape to a second shape; forming a plug with the shape-change particles when in the second shape; and inhibiting the undesirable fluid flow path from fluid flow therethrough with the plug of shape-change particles.