(645f) Magnetic Surfactants for Cost-Effective Control of Shale Swelling in Drilling Fluids

During drilling operations, shale swelling poses significant challenges due to its interaction with water, leading to a range of issues that are often difficult to manage. Shale swelling inhibitors are routinely added to drilling fluids to mitigate these problems. Among these additives, surfactants are widely employed to prevent shale swelling, reduce bit balling issues, and enhance lubricity. In this groundbreaking study, we introduce a novel magnetic surfactant engineered specifically for inhibiting shale swelling in drilling fluids. The evaluation of shale swelling inhibition involved a comprehensive set of tests, including linear swelling tests, capillary suction timer tests, zeta potential measurements, and scanning electron microscopy. The performance of the newly developed magnetic surfactant was compared with traditional shale stabilizers, such as potassium chloride (KCl). Two distinct concentrations of magnetic surfactants (0.2% and 0.4% by weight) were employed to prepare the investigative solutions. Additionally, rheological and fluid loss tests were conducted to assess the impact of magnetic surfactants on drilling fluid properties. Remarkably, the results demonstrated a significant reduction in shale swelling when magnetic surfactants were introduced. Moreover, the addition of magnetic surfactants to clay led to noticeable improvements in fluid loss and rheological properties, indicating reduced clay hydration. The zeta potential shifted from highly negative to a lower negative value, and the capillary suction timer readings decreased. These observations underscore the effectiveness of magnetic surfactants in providing long-term shale swelling inhibition by intercalating into clay layers and preventing their interaction with water. This study marks a pioneering effort in the application of magnetic surfactants as inhibitors of clay swelling in drilling fluids. The experimental findings highlight magnetic surfactants as a promising and cost-effective alternative to conventional swelling inhibitors, offering innovative solutions to mitigate shale-related challenges in drilling operations.