IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

International Journal of Engineering and Modern Technology (IJEMT )

E-ISSN 2504-8848
P-ISSN 2695-2149
VOL. 10 NO. 10 2024
DOI: 10.56201/ijemt.v10.no10.2024.pg114.129

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Time-Dependent Characterisation of Locally Formulated Drilling Mud: A case study of Bulu Apelebiri Clay Deposit

Lily Obioma Irabor

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Abstract

In Nigeria, the oil and gas industry heavily relies on imported materials for drilling mud formulation, including bentonite. Despite the promising potential of local clay deposits, their suitability for drilling mud formulations is often limited by challenges related to time- dependent stability. Locally formulated drilling muds may experience degradation in properties such as viscosity, pH, and density over time, affecting their overall performance. This time-dependent behaviour can compromise critical functions like cuttings transport, wellbore stability, and hydrostatic pressure maintenance, thereby threatening drilling efficiency and safety. This research evaluates the time-dependent rheological and physical properties of locally formulated drilling mud from Bulu Apelebiri, including viscosity, pH, and density, to assess its stability and suitability for drilling operations. Results reveal that mud concentration significantly impacts stability, with the 17.5g sample exhibiting the highest variability due to insufficient buffering capacity, while the 24.5g sample demonstrated consistent pH levels and superior viscosity for suspension stability and wellbore cleaning. The 21g formulation emerged as the most stable in maintaining hydrostatic pressure, although low- shear inconsistencies were noted. While all samples exhibited neutral to slightly acidic pH, limiting their application in strongly alkaline environments, the findings underscore the adaptability and customization potential of locally formulated mud. Tailoring its properties to operational requirements offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution for diverse drilling scenarios.

keywords:

drilling mud; bulu apelebiri clay; time-dependent characterisation; rheology;

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