Using Graphite Nanoparticles for Optimum Design of Water-Based Drilling Fluid (Case Study: Azadegan Oil Field)

Water-based drilling fluid is more important than gas-based and oil-based drilling fluids for adaptability with environment and easy working with it. A water-based drilling fluid can have a significant role in drilling operations with its desirable properties including rheology, fluid loss, coefficient of friction (CF), pH, and fluid weight. This research studied the effect of nanoparticle graphite effect on improving the properties of water-based drilling fluid in various experiments by rotary viscometers, standard filter press, lubricity meter, pH-meter, and mud balance. In addition, fluid loss control additives were used as a control to compare the obtained results from application of nanoparticles and understanding the effect of their presence in experiments. Results showed that graphite nanoparticles can increase yield point (YP) in mud (increased from 10 lb/100ft² to 12 lb/100ft²). Research results showed that graphite nanoparticles can reduce drilling fluid loss in 100psi and T=75°F about 22% (from 4.5cc to 3.5cc during 30 min). Moreover, research results showed that graphite nanoparticles can reduce friction coefficient to 58%.