Patent Description:
Various types of fluid system components can be utilized in fluid transport, fluid control, fluid operations, etc. For example, a pipe can be utilized for fluid transport, a valve can be utilized for fluid control, and a pump can be utilized for fluid operations. As an example, a reservoir can be a subterranean reservoir that includes fluid where various types of fluid system components may be utilized at the surface or below the surface (e.g., subsurface or subterranean). Where a borehole is drilled into a subterranean environment, which may include a reservoir, various types of fluid system components may be utilized at the surface of the borehole, if the borehole extends to the surface, and various types of fluid system components may be utilized downhole, for example, positioned in the borehole a depth or depths from the surface using one or more types of operations (e.g., rig, wireline, pump-down, etc.). In various environment (e.g., offshore, near shore, reservoir, etc.), one or more fluid system components may be exposed to water as a fluid at an exterior surface (e.g., fresh water, salt water, formation water, etc.) and fluid (e.g., water, oil, gas, etc.) at an interior surface.

<CIT> discloses a piezoelectric device in which electrodes may be made of various materials, one of which is graphene. In an illustrated embodiment the electrodes are covered by an encapsulation layer, and three further layers. The layer furthest from the electrodes may be a polymer film. Polymers named as possibilities for this layer are polyimide (PI) and polyetheretherketone (PEEK). <CIT> discloses a method of fabricating a material by exposing a polymer to a laser which converts some of the polymer to graphene. This graphene is then infiltrated with another material and the resulting composite material is removed from the polymer. The composite has a number of uses including use in gas sensors.

Features and advantages of the described implementations can be more readily understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

The following description includes the best mode presently contemplated for practicing the described implementations. This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but rather is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of the implementations. The scope of the described implementations should be ascertained with reference to the claims.

<FIG> shows an example of a fluid system component <NUM> that includes a support body <NUM> and a piezoelectric and graphene region <NUM> that forms at least a portion of an electric circuit. A fluid system can be a system of components that includes at least some components exposed to fluid directly and/or indirectly. Such fluid may be or include one or more of formation fluid, sea water, fresh water, oil, gas, drilling fluid (e.g., mud), etc. As an example, a fluid system component can be for a fluid handling system, which may be a fluid transport system. As an example, a fluid system component can be a component utilized in a downhole environment such as in a borehole, for example, to drill the borehole, treat the borehole, complete the borehole, generation of one or more fractures in a formation using the borehole, etc. A fluid system component may be exposed to fluid pressure, which may be via direct contact with fluid and/or indirect contact with fluid. As an example, a fluid system component may be exposed to fluid and be exposed to force from another source or sources. For example, consider rock adjacent to a fluid system component that applies force to the fluid system component (e.g., a tubular, a valve, etc.). As to one or more other types of force, consider force between components, force associated with degradation of a component, force associated with one or more types of scaling, etc..

In the example of <FIG>, in the region <NUM>, piezoelectric material is electrically coupled or may become electrically coupled to graphene circuitry. For example, the fluid system component <NUM> can be deployed with at least a portion of the piezoelectric material electrically coupled to graphene circuitry and/or with at least a portion of the piezoelectric material electrically decoupled from graphene circuitry. As to the former, a change in the fluid system component <NUM> may cause at least a portion of the piezoelectric material to become decoupled from the graphene circuitry and/or, as to the latter, a change in the fluid system component <NUM> may cause at least a portion of the piezoelectric material to become electrically coupled to the graphene circuitry. Where piezoelectric material is electrically coupled to graphene circuitry, the piezoelectric material may cause a change in potential, current, etc., in the graphene circuitry, for example, responsive to a change in the fluid system component. As an example, a change may be a change due to scaling, a change due to degradation, a change due to pressure, a change due to compression, a change due to tension, a change due to torque, etc..

<FIG> shows examples of circuits <NUM> and <NUM> that represent operational modes of piezoelectric material. As shown in <FIG>, when a piezoelectric material of the piezoelectric and graphene region <NUM>, which at least in part forms an electric circuit, experiences strain, charge distribution in the piezoelectric material can change such that, for example, one side becomes positively charged and the other side becomes negatively charged. As an example, output from a piezoelectric element can be a charge proportional to pressure where, for example, a charge amplifier may be utilized to convert the charge (e.g., charge signal) to a voltage (e.g., a voltage signal, etc.). As an example, a component may include one or more charge amplifiers that can provide one or more voltage outputs. In such an example, a power source may be utilized to supply power to the one or more charge amplifiers. As an example, in a charge-mode approach, a generated charge can be an output signal where, as desired, such an output signal may be converted to a voltage using a local and/or a remote charge amplifier. A piezoelectric sensor may be characterized as having a relatively high impedance output, which can make it sensitive to noise (e.g., caused by poor connections, cable movement, electromagnetic/RF interference, etc.). Where a charge amplifier is utilized, a low frequency response of a piezoelectric sensor can depend on the discharge time of the charge amplifier.

As explained, a piezoelectric material can be utilized to form at least part of a circuit that has a relatively high DC output impedance, which may be modeled as a proportional voltage source and filter network. In such an example, the voltage V at the source is directly proportional to the applied force, pressure, or strain experienced by the piezoelectric material. In such an example, the output signal can be related to such mechanical force as if it had passed through an equivalent circuit.

As shown in an example plot <NUM> of <FIG>, a piezoelectric circuit can be modeled by its frequency response, which may be plotted as an output voltage over applied force versus frequency. A detailed model of a piezoelectric circuit can include effects of mechanical construction, non-idealities, etc. In such a circuit, inductance Lm can be due to seismic mass and inertia of the piezoelectric circuit itself. A capacitance, Ce, can be inversely proportional to the mechanical elasticity of the piezoelectric circuit and a capacitance, C<NUM>, can represent the static capacitance of the piezoelectric circuit, resulting from an inertial mass of infinite size. A resistance, Ri, can be an insulation leakage resistance of the piezoelectric circuit's piezoelectric element. If such a piezoelectric circuit is connected to a load resistance, this can also act in parallel with the insulation resistance, both increasing the high-pass cutoff frequency.

As shown in the plot <NUM>, a relatively flat region exists over a range of frequencies (e.g., a frequency band) that is greater than the high-pass cutoff frequency (e.g., cutting out low frequencies) and that is less than a resonant frequency. In the flat region, the piezoelectric circuit may be modeled as a voltage source in series with the piezoelectric circuit's capacitance as in the circuit <NUM> or as a charge source in parallel with the capacitance as in the circuit <NUM>.

The piezoelectric and graphene region <NUM> may be configured to operate in the flat region of the frequency response plot (e.g., between the high-pass cutoff and the resonant peak). In such an example, a load and leakage resistance can be selected to be large enough such that low frequencies of interest are not lost. An equivalent circuit model can be used in this region, in which Cs represents the capacitance of the piezoelectric circuit surface itself, which may be estimated by a standard formula for capacitance of parallel plates. As mentioned, it may also be modeled as a charge source in parallel with the source capacitance, with the charge directly proportional to the applied force.

As explained, the piezoelectric and graphene region <NUM> may operate to provide a voltage (e.g., a potential differential, etc.) and/or to provide a charge (e.g., a current, etc.). As an example, circuitry can be operatively coupled to the piezoelectric and graphene region <NUM> that can carry and/or measure voltage, current, etc. In such an example, the circuitry may be at least in part downhole circuitry, which may be operatively coupled to surface circuitry. As an example, circuitry can be operable downhole, for example, for downhole control of one or more operations and/or can be operable at surface, for example, for surface control of one or more operations.

A method can include making a fluid system component with a piezoelectric and graphene region. For example, the piezoelectric and graphene region may be suitable for applications that include oilfields, pressure/stress sensing, structural monitoring, flow measurements (e.g., via pressure monitoring, etc.), etc. As an example, a fluid system component may be a fracturing operation downhole component where a piezoelectric and graphene region can provide for real-time monitoring of one or more aspects of a fracturing operation (e.g., single stage, multi-stage, etc.). In such an example, pressure developed during fracturing can induce a signal via a piezoelectric and graphene region of a ball, dart, a seat, etc., which may be, for example, transmitted to surface to indicate zone isolation is established and fracturing occurs in a given zone. Additionally, or alternatively, disappearance of a signal may indicate zone communication and the end of a specific zone fracturing. As an example, a piezoelectric and graphene region may be used with a degradable component such as a ball, a dart, a receptacle (e.g., a seat, etc.), etc., which may be disposed downhole within a well (e.g., as part of a fracturing operation, etc.).

As an example, a fabrication method can include utilizing a spray and bake process where polymer, piezoelectric material, and a ceramic material in powder form may be suspended in a solution, such as water, and spray painted onto a surface, prior to drying, for instance in an oven. Another process may include a high velocity "cold" spray of piezoelectric, ceramic and polymer mixed powders. In such an example, the high kinetic energy cold spray process can deform polymer particles around piezoelectric ceramic particles deposited onto a selected fluid system component surface (e.g., in absence of polymer thermal decomposition, etc.). As an example, piezoelectric material may be selected from the lead zirconate titanate (PZT) family, for example, in doped condition with a high piezoelectric charge constant (d33).

As an example, a method for creating a composite piezoelectric coating (CPC) can include utilizing a carrier gas supply that feeds carrier gas to a gas controller (e.g., nitrogen, helium, air, or another inert gas). In such an example, the gas controller can separate the carrier gas into two separate streams and feed a first carrier gas stream to a heater and a second carrier gas stream to a powder feeder where, for example, flow rate of each carrier gas stream may be controlled independently. In such an example, the heater can heat the first carrier gas stream to a predetermined temperature which may be room temperature or an elevated temperature such as <NUM> degrees C. Once heated, the first carrier gas stream leaves the heater and can be fed to a supersonic nozzle while the powder feeder can entrain a powder in the second carrier gas stream.

As an example, a powder may be a combination of a piezoelectric material and a second material. As mentioned, piezoelectric material may be selected from the lead zirconate titanate family (e.g., soft piezoelectric for ultrasonic transmitter and receivers, and hard piezoelectric for high power acoustics). The modification of a base composition of lead zirconate titanate may be carried out, for example, by doping of lanthanum, niobium, iron nickel, etc. (e.g., one or more transition elements). As an example, a method can include selecting an additional material from one or more polymeric materials (e.g., polypropylene, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), P(VDF-tetrafluoroethylene), phenolics, epoxies, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), or polyether ketone (PEK), etc.). In such an example, a ceramic (e.g., one or more ceramic materials) may be included, for example, for mechanical reinforcement and/or pigmentation. As an example, a polymeric material may be of the polyaryletherketone (PAEK) family. As an example, a polymeric material may be a fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP). As an example, a polymeric material may be a perfluoroalkoxy polymer resin (PFA). As an example, a polymeric material may be a fluoropolymer. As an example, a polymeric material may be a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). As an example, a polymeric material may be a polyetherimide (PEI).

As another example, additionally or alternatively, a selected material may be a silicon based material (e.g., consider combining piezoelectric thin films with micromachined silicon membranes). As an example, a ratio of piezoelectric material to an additional material or materials in a powder may be controlled as part of a manufacturing process. As to powder characteristics, consider, for example, powder that may have an average particle size between approximately <NUM> and approximately <NUM>. A silicon based material may be utilized with a polymeric material where the polymeric material can be used to generate graphene (e.g., graphene as one or more conductors).

As an example, a method can entrain powder in a gas stream where the powder and the gas exit a powder feeder that feeds a supersonic nozzle unit, which may receive another gas such that the gases and powder are combined and ejected at relatively high velocity from the supersonic nozzle (e.g., consider a range from approximately <NUM>/s to approximately <NUM>/s). The ejected mixture may be directed at a target, which may be a support body of a fluid system component, etc. (e.g., a tool, degradable component, ball, seat, dart, flow control valve, multicycle valve, cylindrical tool, part of a transducer or sensor, etc.). Upon impacting the target, the powder entrained in the stream can be consolidated into a CPC (e.g., by kinetic energy of the impact).

As an example, powder temperature before, during, and after consolidation may be kept below the powder's melting point. Upon impact, kinetic energy of the powder can compress the powder, which can act to reduce voids. As an example, a CPC can include a percolated matrix of piezoelectric material that is encapsulated by another material or materials. <CIT>, entitled "Piezoelectric coatings for downhole sensing and monitoring" describes various CPC techniques.

A CPC may be deposited over a desired area or areas of a fluid system component where one or more of such areas may be sensitive to changes in pressure. For example, a CPC may be disposed over a large enough area to sense multiple pressures within a well.

Mixtures of piezoelectric material, ceramic, and polymers may be deposited over a desired area or areas of a fluid system component where one or more of such areas may be sensitive to changes in pressure. For example, such mixtures may be disposed over a large enough area to sense multiple pressures within a well.

Referring again to <FIG>, the piezoelectric and graphene region <NUM> may be subjected to pressure from one side or more than one side. In the graphic illustrating distribution of charges, pressure may cause a decrease in a dimension of the piezoelectric and graphene region <NUM>, which, as explained, can generate a signal (e.g., charge, etc.).

Where a fluid system component is at least in part degradable, one or more effects may impact a piezoelectric and graphene region, which may be detectable via a signal or signals (e.g., or lack thereof, etc.).

Where scale forms on a fluid system component, the scale may alter responsiveness of a piezoelectric and graphene region. For example, such a region may become stiffer and hence experience less strain for a given amount of pressure (e.g., fluid pressure, etc.).

While the fluid system component <NUM> of <FIG> shows the piezoelectric and graphene region <NUM> being at an outer perimeter, a fluid system component may, alternatively or additionally, include one or more other piezoelectric and graphene regions. For example, consider one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions at the inner perimeter of the support body <NUM> and/or one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions between the inner perimeter and the outer perimeter of the support body. In one or more of such examples, multiple measurements may be made, which can allow for differentials to be computed or otherwise measured using circuitry. As an example, consider a nulling approach where inner perimeter and outer perimeter pressures offset each other to null a signal and, where they do not offset each other, generate a signal. In such an example, circuitry can be utilized to provide a desired null point, which may be for a ratio of signals that may be <NUM>:<NUM> and/or other than <NUM>:<NUM>. As an example, a signal may be a signal that is generated by multiple piezoelectric and graphene regions and/or one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions and another type of circuitry (e.g., piezoelectric without graphene, etc.). As an example, circuitry (see, e.g., the circuits <NUM> and <NUM>, etc.) may be combined with other circuitry, which may be operatively coupled to or part of one or more other types of sensors. Thus one or more piezoelectric and graphene sensor signals can be included in a combined signal. A combined signal can be homogeneous or can be heterogeneous, depending on sensor types.

As mentioned, in various environments (e.g., offshore, near shore, reservoir, etc.), one or more fluid system components may be exposed to water as a fluid at an exterior surface (e.g., fresh water, salt water, formation water, etc.) and fluid (e.g., water, oil, gas, etc.) at an interior surface. In such examples, a fluid system component can include multiple piezoelectric regions, which can include one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions. In such examples, electrical circuits may be independent or combined in that they can be electrically coupled.

If a fluid system component degrades, it may include one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions that degrade or not. As an example, a support body may degrade in part such that two or more piezoelectric and graphene regions come into electrical contact, which may provide a corresponding signal that is indicative of such contact (e.g., inferring degradation of at least a portion of the support body). While such an example, refers to a single fluid system component, an assembly of fluid system components may provide for contact sensing using one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions, whether one or more of the fluid system components is degradable or not degradable. As an example, contact sensing may provide for one or more of contact and non-contact sensing. For example, consider a single signal turning into two signals or vice versa depending on state of contact (e.g., non-contact or contact).

In various instances, contact force may be determined using one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions. For example, consider two of such regions in contact for two fluid system components. In such an example, two separate and independent signals may be provided that may optionally be compared to determine status of one or more of the regions. For example, if one of the fluid system components is degradable, its signal may degrade where the piezoelectric and graphene region of that fluid system component is degradable, whether directly and/or indirectly (e.g., as being supported on a support body that may be degradable, etc.).

As explained, one or more signals can be utilized for monitoring, control, etc., of one or more fluid system operations, which may be surface fluid system operations and/or subsurface fluid system operations where a subsurface fluid system operation may be below a water surface (e.g., sub-sea, etc.). As an example, a fluid system operation may be a marine-based fluid system operation, which may involve use of a vessel, an offshore structure, etc..

<FIG> shows an example of a composite material <NUM> that can include multiple layers <NUM> and <NUM> where the multiple layers <NUM> and <NUM> can be spaced apart, for example, by a dimension Δz, where the dimension can change in response to force. As shown, the layer <NUM> can include a conductor <NUM> and the layer <NUM> can include a conductor <NUM> where capacitance can be measured between the conductors <NUM> and <NUM> as a function of the dimension Δz. As shown in an example plot <NUM>, as the dimension Δz changes with respect to time, the capacitance of the composite material <NUM> can change.

<FIG> also shows an arrangement with two conductors <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> that may be part of a common layer (e.g., consider the layer <NUM> or the layer <NUM>). In such an example, where the layer can deform, the relative positions of the patterns of the conductors <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> can change.

In the example of <FIG>, at least one of the conductors <NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM> includes graphene. The layer <NUM> may include a material that can form graphene as a conductor and/or the layer <NUM> may include a material that can form graphene as a conductor.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, the layers <NUM> and <NUM> can define a space that includes a material <NUM>, which may be or may include piezoelectric material. For example, as the dimension Δz changes, charge distribution in the material <NUM> may change. Thus, the composite material <NUM> can include two different techniques for measuring force (e.g., pressure, etc.) where one technique depends on capacitance and the other technique depends on the piezoelectric effect. In such an example, one or more of the conductors <NUM> and <NUM> may be electrically coupled to piezoelectric material. In such an example, charge may be carried and/or induced in at least one of the conductors <NUM> and <NUM> via the piezoelectric effect (see, e.g., <FIG>).

A piezoelectric effect may generate charge that can flow in one or more circuits that itself includes a deformable conductive portion. For example, pressure can cause piezoelectric material to generate charge that can flow in a graphene conductor, which may be in a circuit that can measure charge, voltage, capacitance, resistance, etc. As explained, charge and voltage or capacitance can be utilized to measure strain in a material or materials.

As an example, a piezoelectric material subjected to force that can be utilized to generate an oscillatory signal (e.g., drive an oscillation circuit, etc.) where the oscillatory signal can be utilized for characterizing capacitance such as between two conductors, which may be or include graphene conductors. In such an example, charge may increase with an increase in force applied to the piezoelectric material where such force may decrease spacing between conductors such that the oscillatory signal changes in a manner dependent on capacitance between the conductors where, for example, the frequency decreases responsive to an increase in capacitance (e.g., a decrease in spacing such as may be defined by Δz).

In the example of <FIG>, the material <NUM> may be a type of material that can be characterized by its electrical properties. For example, consider one or more of the different types of dielectric classifications: dielectric, piezoelectric, pyroelectric or ferroelectric. As an example, the material <NUM> may be made of multiple materials (e.g., layered, interwoven, distributed, etc.).

<FIG> shows an example of a system <NUM> that can be utilized to manufacture at least a portion of a component <NUM>. As shown, the system <NUM> includes an electromagnetic (EM) energy generator <NUM>, which may be a laser, an electron beam generator, a plasma generator, etc. Where the EM energy generator <NUM> generates a beam, the beam may be directed using one or more elements. For example, for a laser, consider a mirror <NUM> and a lens <NUM> where the lens <NUM> can focus a beam <NUM> onto a material <NUM> as part of a composite <NUM> for conversion of the material <NUM> to graphene <NUM>. In such an example, the composite <NUM> can include a support body <NUM> that can support one or more other materials (e.g., the material <NUM>, the graphene <NUM>, dielectric material <NUM>, etc.).

In the example of <FIG>, the material <NUM> may be or may include polyimide and/or one or more other polymers. In <FIG>, some example structures of aromatic polyimide are shown where aromatic rings are present in units that are repeated. As explained, one or more materials (e.g., the material <NUM>, etc.) can be converted at least in part to graphene, some example structural features thereof being illustrated in <FIG>. For example, graphene includes carbon rings that can form substantially planar sheets where sheets may optionally be formed as stacked sheets. When stacked, properties may differ depending on orientation. For example, heat conductivity may differ for in-plane and inter-plane directions where in-plane heat conductivity (kMax) is greater than inter-plane heat conductivity (kMin).

In graphene, carbon atoms are arranged in a hexagonal manner, due to sp2 bonding, as a crystalline allotrope of carbon (e.g., as a large aromatic molecule). Graphene may be described as being a one-atom thick layer of graphite and may be a basic structural element of carbon allotropes such as, for example, graphite, charcoal, carbon nanotubes and fullerenes. In <FIG>, the illustrations for the material <NUM> show a carbon ring along with a layer of graphene and layers of graphene, which may be described, for example, with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system (x, y, z).

Graphene can be characterized as a zero-overlap semimetal (with both holes and electrons as charge carriers) with very high electrical conductivity. Carbon atoms have a total of <NUM> electrons; <NUM> in the inner shell and <NUM> in the outer shell. The <NUM> outer shell electrons in an individual carbon atom can be available for chemical bonding, but in graphene, each atom is connected to <NUM> other carbon atoms on the two dimensional plane, leaving <NUM> electron freely available in the third dimension for electronic conduction. These highly-mobile electrons are called pi (π) electrons and are located above and below a graphene sheet. These pi orbitals overlap and help to enhance the carbon to carbon bonds in graphene. Fundamentally, the electronic properties of graphene are dictated by the bonding and anti-bonding (the valance and conduction bands) of these pi orbitals.

As to the material <NUM>, it may be a polymeric material that may be an electrical insulator. As an example, a polymeric material can be a dielectric material that is an electrical insulator. A dielectric material or dielectric is an electrical insulator that can be polarized by an applied electric field.

In the example of <FIG>, the material <NUM> may be or may include one or more polymers (e.g., polymeric materials), including one or more of the materials shown, which can include one or more of polyimide (PI), PEEK, PTFE, PFA, PPS, PEI, and one or more other polymers.

PEEK tends to exhibit high resistant to downhole environments and can be readily sprayed onto a metallic surface. PEEK may also be used in one or more types of coatings, which may optionally include one or more ceramics to tailor physical properties. For example, a ceramic may be included in a composite material with one or more polymers to provide a harder and more abrasion resistant component. As to types of ceramics, consider one or more ceramic pigments such as titania, cobalt or nickel oxides, etc. Through inclusion of a ceramic, a color of a resulting composite material may be adjusted. As an example, with PTFE addition or boron nitride ceramic, lubricity of a composite material may be reduced.

As mentioned, a polymeric material can be a polyimide. Polyimides (PI) are high-performance polymers of imide monomers that include two acyl groups (C=O) bonded to nitrogen (N). PIs can exhibit high temperature performance, for example, in a range of <NUM> degrees C to <NUM> degrees C. PIs can also be resistant to various chemicals.

Polyimides can exist as thermosetting PIs and as thermoplastic PIs. Depending upon the constitution of their main chain, PIs can be classified as aliphatic, aromatics, semi-aromatics thermoplastics and thermosets. Aromatic polyimides may be derived from an aromatic dianhydride and diamine. Semi-aromatic ones can include one or more monomer aromatics (e.g., dianhydride or diamine is aromatic, and another part is aliphatic). Aliphatic polyimides can include polymers formed as a result of the combination of aliphatic dianhydride and diamine.

Various PIs are infusible and insoluble due to their planar aromatic and heteroaromatic structures and thus, where desired, may be processed from a solvent route.

As an example, a polymeric material can be characterized at least in part by a dielectric constant. For example, KAPTON™ polyimide film (marketed by E. Du Pont de Nemours and Company, Wilmington, Delaware) can be characterized by a dielectric constant that can depend on humidity where the dielectric constant increases with respect to increasing relative humidity (RH), for example, from about <NUM> to about <NUM> for an increase from about <NUM> percent RH to about <NUM> percent RH (e.g., for a <NUM> mil film of KAPTON® type HN polymer). Such water-related changes in properties are due to polyimide films being formed by condensation reactions. Polyimide, when exposed to water, can degrade via hydrolytic attack. The kinetics of hydrolytic degradation can depend on temperature and pressure as well as, for example, presence of other constituents in an environment.

A polyimide may be converted to graphene where graphene is more robust in that it does not experience hydrolytic degradation as does polyimide. Where graphene is formed in a layer of polyimide, it is adjacent to polyimide, optionally in a manner supported by polyimide. Where water exposure occurs, such water may be utilized beneficially to degrade polyimide via hydrolytic attack in a manner that degrades support for graphene. Where an electrical circuit that includes graphene is degraded, that may operate as a signal as to status of a fluid system component.

Where a fluid system component is in an aqueous environment where water may reach polyimide, one or more barrier materials may be utilized to protect the polyimide from hydrolytic attack. For example, a lead (Pb) or bismuth (Bi) layer can be a barrier layer that acts to protect polyimide. For example, a lead (Pb) layer can reduce permeation of water, H<NUM>S, CO<NUM> or one or more other constituents that can degrade polyimide and/or otherwise impact its dielectric properties (e.g., ability to insulate a conductor, which may be a graphene conductor or another type of conductor). While lead (Pb) and bismuth (Bi) are mentioned as examples of types of barrier material, one or more other types of barrier materials may be utilized, which may be, for example, one or more of metallic material, ceramic material, and polymeric material.

As to the material <NUM>, a schematic of a crystalline structure is illustrated, which may be a PZT type of crystalline structure (e.g., a piezoelectric crystalline structure). As an example, one or more PZT layers (e.g., films, etc.) may be integrated into a fluid system component for use as part of a sensor, an actuator, a filter, a transducer, etc. As an example, a relatively thick, dense, and crack-free piezoelectric layer (e.g., greater than <NUM>) with good piezoelectric and dielectric properties may be utilized to produce generative forces with relatively fast response speeds.

In <FIG>, the example fluid system component <NUM> may be of a particular shape where a portion thereof includes the composite <NUM>, which may be utilized for generating a signal. For example, consider graphene conductors that can change spatially in response to pressure, degradation of material, exposure to one or more chemicals (e.g., water, etc.), etc..

A signal generated by the composite <NUM> as part of the fluid system component <NUM> may operate locally and/or remotely. For example, a signal may be provided to local circuitry (e.g., to a local monitor, a local controller, etc.) a signal may be transmitted via one or more techniques to a remote location (e.g., to a remote monitor, to a remote controller, etc.). As an example, a signal may act as a trigger, for example, to release a chemical, release an electrical charge, etc. Where a fluid system component includes one or more degradable portions, a trigger may act to initiate and/or expedite degradation (e.g., via chemical release, electrical charge release, etc.). As to a chemical, consider an acid or a base that may attack a type of bond of material of a degradable component. As to an electrical charge, consider a charge that may be from a capacitor or other storage device (e.g., battery, etc.), which may cause degradation of one or more types of bonds (e.g., directly, via resistive heating, inductive heating, etc.).

As an example, a signal may trigger an anti-scaling process. For example, consider the composite <NUM> as being exposed to effects of scale formation on the fluid system component <NUM>. In such an example, the composite <NUM> may respond by generating a signal that can trigger release of energy, one or more chemicals, etc., that can act to reduce scale, reduce scale formation, etc..

Scale can be a deposit or coating formed on a surface of material, which may be a metallic material, rock, etc. Scale can be caused by one or more processes. For example, consider one or more of precipitation due to a chemical reaction with a surface of material, precipitation caused by one or more chemical reactions, a change in pressure, a change in temperature, a change in composition of a solution, etc. As an example, scale may be formed via a corrosion process. As to types of chemicals that may form or be in scale, consider one or more of calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, barium sulfate, strontium sulfate, iron sulfide, iron oxides, iron carbonate, various silicates and phosphates and oxides, various compounds insoluble or slightly soluble in water, etc..

As an example, scale can be a mineral salt deposit that may occur on tubing or other components as saturation of produced water is affected by changing conditions. Scale may create a restriction, or even a plug, in tubing. As to removal of scale, various types of mechanical, chemical and/or scale inhibitor treatment options may be available.

As to how scale may affect the composite <NUM>, consider a reduction in pressure from fluid flowing past a surface of the fluid system component <NUM> as scale may be relatively rigid and hinder deformation of material in the composite <NUM>. For example, as scale adheres and builds on such a surface, the scale may have a Young's modulus (e.g., elasticity modulus) that is large such that the effect of fluid pressure on a deformable material is reduced and hence a pressure-based signal is reduced (e.g., as from a piezoelectric material, spatial arrangement of graphene conductors, etc.).

As explained, a fluid system component can include one or more graphene conductors, which may be formed using an EM energy generator that can convert a material to graphene. In various examples, a material can be or can include one or more polymers that can be converted to graphene where the graphene can be utilized as an electrical conductor. Such graphene may itself be utilized for signal generation responsive to deformation and/or such graphene may be utilized for carrying a signal in relationship to a material such as a piezoelectric material (e.g., a piezo ceramic, etc.).

As an example, a fluid system component can include a piezoelectric and graphene region (e.g., optionally as layered coatings) where a method of manufacture can, for example, utilize polymer spray coatings, combined with localized thermal scans (e.g. laser, e-beam, micro plasmas, etc.) to form conductive graphene (e.g., conductive patterns of graphene). As to the fluid system component, it may include a support body where a method of manufacture can include, for example, application of one or more coatings to one or more surfaces of the support body. In such an example, the fluid system component may be a flow conduit with pressure/stress sensing and monitoring (prognostic health monitoring) capabilities. As mentioned, as an example, a fluid system component may include scale deposition monitoring capabilities. As an example, a fluid system component may include a skin polymer that may be, for example, one or more of PEEK, PEK, PTFE, PEI, PPS, PFA, etc.; a piezoelectric material that may be selected from the lead zirconate titanate (PZT) family; graphene, which may be produced after depositing polymer and/or a polymer-ceramic layer, where the graphene can be utilized as part of an electrical circuit. For example, graphene may form a continuous electrically conductive or electrode path (e.g., ranging from a simple line to complex and interconnected geometric patterns, such as strain gauge, RFID like, etc.).

As explained with respect to the example fluid system component <NUM> of <FIG>, the composite <NUM> can transform equipment (e.g., valves, actuators, sealing devices, etc.) into "smart" equipment, for example, with one or more abilities to sense and report stress (pressure), strains (displacement), degradation, etc. For example, when applied to oilfield scales, the composite <NUM> may sense and monitor hydrostatic pressure changes (e.g., heavy scaling resulting in reduced flow cross-section) and/or scale-adhesion induced stresses (e.g., scaling attaching to the sensing skin will impact its flexibility, translating into electrical changes).

As an example, the composite <NUM> of <FIG> may be a skin that may be characterized as being "smart" due to its capabilities of generating an electrical, measurable response to an external stimulus (e.g., mechanical, hydraulic, degradative, etc.). For example, force may cause one or more changes in strain in a smart skin where the smart skin produces an electrical response (e.g., a current, a voltage, an impedance, etc.).

As an example, a fluid system component can include a layered sensing skin (e.g., with ability to generate an electrical response) where the sensing skin is applied to one or more surfaces of the fluid system component (e.g., a structural component). For example, a fluid system component can include one or more surfaces that define one or more passages for fluid, for contact with another component, etc. As an example, a fluid system component may include a shape that is cylindrical, hollow, etc..

As an example, a composite that can be included in a fluid system component can include: one or more polymers (PEEK, PEK, PTFE, PFA, PPS, PEI, etc.), optionally in continuous and interconnected form; one or more piezoelectric materials (e.g., PZT family), which may be in discontinuous form (e.g., powder impregnations, etc.) and in isolated form; and lines of graphene-rich electrodes, intrinsically electrically conductive, which may be produced by localized thermal sources.

Referring again to <FIG>, the piezoelectric and graphene region <NUM> may be a smart sensing skin positioned on an outer diameter surface (OD) or, for example, may be on an internal surface (e.g., ID). In such an example, two or more layers may be utilized where one layer may be an electrically insulating (e.g., dielectric) layer deposited onto a metallic surface where another layer is stimuli-responsive to generate a detectable (e.g., measurable) electrical influx. As an example, a top layer or top coat may be included to protect one or more other layers. As mentioned, where a layer includes a suitable polymer, where a portion thereof may be converted to graphene, a barrier material may optionally be utilized, as desired (e.g., for hindering intrusion of water, which may hydrolytically attack polyimide, etc.).

As explained with respect to <FIG>, one or more polymers may be utilized, which may include one or more of PI, PEEK, PTFE, PFA, PPS, PEI and one or more other polymers. In such an example, one or more of the polymers may be converted at least in part to graphene.

<FIG> shows examples of Raman spectrograms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> for some examples of materials that can be converted to graphene. <FIG> also shows some example structures <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> that may be formed using a material convertible to graphene. Raman spectroscopy can be utilized as a non-destructive chemical analysis technique to provide information about chemical structure, phase and polymorphy, crystallinity and molecular interactions. A Raman spectrum (or Raman spectrograph) is based upon the interaction of light with the chemical bonds within a material. A Raman spectrum can feature a number of peaks, showing the intensity and wavelength position of the Raman scattered light. In such a spectrum, each peak can correspond to a specific molecular bond vibration, including individual bonds such as C-C, C=C, N-O, C-H etc., and groups of bonds such as benzene ring breathing mode, polymer chain vibrations, lattice modes, etc..

Raman spectroscopy can be utilized to identify and characterize graphene. For example, Raman spectroscopy may be used to determine the number and orientation of layers, the quality and types of edge, and the effects of perturbations, such as electric and magnetic fields, strain, doping, disorder and functional groups. Such an approach may provide insight into sp<NUM>-bonded carbon allotropes, because graphene is their fundamental building block.

In graphene, the Stokes phonon energy shift caused by laser excitation creates two main peaks in the Raman spectrum: G (<NUM>-<NUM>), a primary in-plane vibrational mode, and 2D (<NUM>-<NUM>), a second-order overtone of a different inplane vibration, D (<NUM>-<NUM>). In a spectrograph, D and 2D peak positions can be dispersive (e.g., dependent on the laser excitation energy). The foregoing positions cited are from a <NUM> excitation laser.

Referring again to the spectrographs <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> of <FIG>, the spectrograph <NUM> corresponds to graphene generated from PEEK (e.g., applied to a substrate as a spray coating), the spectrograph <NUM> corresponds to graphene generated from PEEK/PPS-PFA (e.g., applied as a ceramic spray coating), the spectrograph <NUM> corresponds to graphene generated by PPS-PTFE (e.g., applied as a ceramic spray coating), and the spectrograph <NUM> corresponds to graphene generated by PEI (e.g., as deposited using an additive manufacturing technique).

As an example, one or more members of the PAEK family may be utilized to form a structure (e.g., as a coating, as a matrix, etc.). PEEK is within the PAEK family and is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic with a linear aromatic polymer structure where recyclable material melts at <NUM> degrees C. PEEK possesses mechanical properties with resistance to chemicals, wear, fatigue and creep even at relatively high operating temperatures. PEEK also has low moisture absorption, stable dielectric (insulating) properties and inherently low flammability. Processing options include injection molding, compression molding, and extrusion into shapes, film or fibers, to thermoforming, spray coating, or stock shape machining.

As an example, PEEK, alone or as a mixture, can be utilized for additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing, etc.). For example, consider an extruder that can operate with a temperature in excess of the melting temperature of PEEK. As an example, a method can include depositing PEEK on to a substrate, which may be a composite structure, where the substrate may be heated to a temperature that is suitable for deposited PEEK (e.g., for forming, control of solidification, etc.).

As an example, a fluid system component may be made at least in part of a polymer such as PEEK. For example, in some instances, PEEK can substitute for metal (e.g., metal, alloy, etc.). In such an example, carbon fibers, glass fibers, etc., may be included as structural reinforcements to provide strength and modulus properties akin to those of aluminum with a density that is lower than aluminum such that strength-to-weight ratio is increased compared to use of metal.

As mentioned, PI can be sensitive to water as hydrolytic attack may be possible depending on conditions. As an example, where water exposure is possible, a material other than PI may be utilized as a material that can be converted at least in part to graphene. As explained, various polymers possess particular properties that can differ. In various examples, a polymeric material may be selected as a pure, a mixture, etc., of one or more materials.

<FIG> shows an example of a composite <NUM> that includes a substrate <NUM>, which may be a support body, an underlayer <NUM> that can be utilized as an insulator to electrically insulate one or more other layers from the substrate <NUM> where the substrate <NUM> is electrically conductive, a piezoelectric and graphene region <NUM>, and a protective layer <NUM>.

As mentioned, one or more portions of the composite <NUM> may be degradable. As an example, where the underlayer <NUM> is degraded, the degradation may result in electrical contact with the substrate <NUM>, which may be utilized in a beneficial manner, if desired. For example, electrical contact may cause a signal to occur or may cause a signal to cease, either of which may be measurable for a particular purpose or purposes. As mentioned, where a polyimide is utilized as an electrical insulator, it may degrade upon exposure to water via hydrolytic attack. Where a portion of the polyimide has been converted to graphene, the graphene may become mechanically and/or electrically conductively unstable, which may alter and/or generate a signal. While polyimide is mentioned, one or more other polymeric materials (e.g., optionally polymeric composite materials) may be utilized, which may optionally be formulated for degradation or not in particular conditions.

As an example, a composite may include one or more of PTFE, FEP, and PFA, and/or one or more non-polymers such as, for example, disulfides (MoS<NUM>), nitrides (BN), graphite (C), and/or one or more other solid lubricants (e.g., as may be included for specific lubrication purposes).

As an example, a composite may include one or more corrosion inhibitors (e.g., metals such as aluminum, ionic compounds such as phosphates, molybdates) that may optionally be added for purposes of improving corrosion protection. For example, such materials may help to protect one or more other materials from corrosion (e.g., by hindering corrosive chemical reactions, etc.).

<FIG> also shows various examples of piezoelectric material and graphene regions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>. As illustrated, graphene lines may be formed from a polymeric material to follow one or more distinct patterns. For example, patterns may include a single line, straight line(s), zig zag and/or others. As an example, lines may be intersecting lines that form an array or, for example, consider random lines. As explained with respect to the examples of <FIG>, a pattern or patterns may provide for changing capacitance and/or gate-based sensing.

<FIG> shows an example of a method <NUM> that includes depositing material <NUM> using an additive printer <NUM> onto a substrate <NUM> to form a layer <NUM> of the material <NUM>, which may be spatially deposited according to instructions in a computer-aided design (CAD) file <NUM> (e.g., STL file, etc.), where an EM energy generator <NUM> can emit energy to convert at least a portion of the material <NUM> of the layer <NUM> into graphene to produce a composite <NUM>. As an example, the CAD file <NUM> may be or include an STL file that includes STL types of instructions, etc. An STL file can include a triangulated representation of a multidimensional model, which may be a CAD model. In the example of <FIG>, the CAD file <NUM> may include instructions that can instruct the EM energy generator <NUM> (e.g., and/or a gantry, etc., that can move the substrate <NUM> with the layer <NUM>). As an example, an assembly may include a dual head for additive printing and for EM energy generation. For example, consider a dual head that can be controlled such that material can be deposited and at least a portion of the deposited material converted into graphene (e.g., in a desired pattern, etc.).

A method of manufacture includes installing and/or forming one or more electrodes, which may be in the form of an array from which an electrical change can be monitored to determine a strain (e.g., from pressure and/or stresses). A medium between electrodes can be a dielectric material (e.g., with a capacitance) that may be continuous and/or discontinuous. As an example, consider a material characterized as being a discontinuous composite made of piezoelectric materials such as particles and/or fibers. In such an example, doped lead-zirconate-titanate and a non-conductive material such as a polymer like PEEK may be utilized. As an example, piezoelectric materials (e.g., in the form of discontinuous particles, particulates, short fibers of a desired aspect ratio, etc., may form a relatively continuous path between electrodes.

While the method <NUM> of <FIG> can include additive manufacture types of equipment, a method may involve one or more spray guns (e.g., paint type), one or more thermal scan units (e.g., one or more lasers), etc. As an example, a method may be iterative where multi-layer coatings can be applied.

As an example, a composite material can include polymer and PZT crystals where a laser can be utilized to form graphene directly on the composite material, for example, as one or more electrodes. As an example, a method can include depositing a first layer that includes polymer and converting at least a portion of the polymer to make an underneath electrode and then depositing another layer for a piezoelectric response and for forming another graphene electrode on that layer. In such an example, a dual layer deposition process may be utilized with two graphene generation operations. In such an example, a piezoelectric material can be in contact with graphene electrodes on two opposing sides of the piezoelectric material, which, as mentioned, may be a PZT crystal and polymeric composite material where a portion of the polymeric material is convertible to graphene.

<FIG> shows an example of a method <NUM> and an example of a method <NUM>. As shown, the method <NUM> includes a provision block <NUM> for providing a support body for a fluid system component, a deposition block <NUM> for depositing a barrier material (e.g., an insulator onto a metallic support body, etc., as appropriate), a deposition block <NUM> for depositing a piezoelectric composite material that can include a polymeric material that is convertible to graphene, a generation block <NUM> for converting at least a portion of the piezoelectric composite material to graphene (e.g., to form one or more electrical conductors, electrodes, etc.), a deposition block <NUM> for depositing a cover material over at least a portion of the graphene, an electrical connect block <NUM> for electrically connecting one or more graphene conductors for piezoelectric sensing, and a deployment block <NUM> for deploying the fluid system component for piezoelectric sensing.

In this example method <NUM>, the deposition block <NUM> may deposit piezoelectric material and polymer (e.g., a polymeric material) where at least a portion of the polymer can be convertible to graphene. In such an example, a separate polymer deposition on top of the piezoelectric composite material may be foregone. Where, however, one or more graphene conductors are desired to be positioned below the piezoelectric composite material, a deposition block can be included for depositing a material such as polymer along with a generation block for generating one or more graphene conductors from at least a portion of the material. Thereafter, the deposition block <NUM> may be performed.

This example method <NUM> can manufacture a fluid system component that includes a support body that includes a surface; and an electrical circuit supported at least in part by the surface, where the electrical circuit includes graphene adjacent to a composite material that includes a polymer convertible to graphene, and where the electrical circuit generates a signal responsive to deformation of at least a portion of the electrical circuit. In such an example, the composite material can include one or more ceramics. A composite material may be a piezoelectric composite material and/or a composite material may be deposited on a piezoelectric material where one or more polymers of the composite material may be converted to graphene (e.g., laser-induced graphene, etc.) to form at least a portion of one or more electrical circuits.

As an example, the deposition of barrier material may deposit a material that can be convertible to graphene. For example, as mentioned a polymer may be an electrical insulator and, as such, it may be utilized as the barrier material. In such an example, the barrier material may be deposited at a desired thickness where a portion of the thickness may be converted to graphene. In such an example, a portion of the barrier material may provide for electrical insulation where another portion of the barrier material may provide for electrical conduction as converted to graphene.

As an example, where a support body is electrically conductive and where a barrier material can be convertible to graphene, a generation process can generate graphene at a thickness of the barrier material such that the graphene is in electrical communication with the support body. In such an example, one or more points of contact, lines of contact, etc., may be formed. In such an example, one electrode may be the support body itself while another electrode is formed from conversion of material to graphene in a different layer, etc. As explained, circuitry may be electrically coupled to one or more electrodes for measuring and/or detecting a signal (e.g., including absence of a signal). In the foregoing example, a support body may form one electrode while another portion forms another electrode.

As to the example method <NUM> of <FIG>, it may be a continuation of the method <NUM> or may be implemented separately, for example, after manufacture of the fluid system component. As shown, the method <NUM> can include a provision block <NUM> for providing a fluid system component that includes a support body that includes a surface and an electrical circuit supported at least in part by the surface, where the electrical circuit includes graphene adjacent to a composite material that includes a polymer convertible to graphene, and where the electrical circuit generates a signal responsive to deformation of at least a portion of the electrical circuit; a performance block <NUM> for performing a fluid operation involving the fluid system component; and a measurement block <NUM> for measuring the signal responsive to the fluid operation deforming at least a portion of the electrical circuit.

As explained, such a measurement may be via one or more types of circuitry, which may include uphole and/or downhole circuitry. For example, a downhole unit can include one or more types of circuitry that can make such a measurement and optionally store and/or act upon a value or values of a measured signal. As another example, surface equipment may include circuitry that can make such a measurement. As an example, circuitry can include analog-to-digital conversion circuitry where an analog signal can be converted into a digital signal, which may be in a form suitable for storage to a digital memory device, processing by a processor, etc..

As an example, a fluid operation can involve deployment. For example, the performance block <NUM> may provide for action akin to that of the deployment block <NUM> and/or the provision block <NUM> may involve deployment akin to the deployment block <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an example of a method <NUM> that includes an exposure block <NUM> for exposing a fluid system component to a solution, a generation block <NUM> for generating a piezoelectric response to mineral precipitation on the fluid system component, a decision block <NUM> for deciding if the response is problematic, and an issuance block <NUM> for issuing an instruction to address the problem if the decision block <NUM> decides that the response is problematic (see, e.g., the "yes" decision branch). As shown, where the decision block <NUM> decides that the response is not problematic, the method <NUM> may continue to the generation block <NUM>.

The method <NUM> may be utilized, for example, to monitor scale formation on the fluid system component using one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions. As to a problematic response, such a response may be indicative of scale formation and/or an extent of scale formation. As to addressing such a problem, as mentioned, an anti-scaling action may be taken, which may include one or more of chemical treatment and/or electrical treatment, the latter of which may include electromagnetic treatment.

<FIG> shows an example of a method <NUM> that includes an exposure block <NUM> for exposing a fluid system component to a solution, a generation block <NUM> for generating a piezoelectric response to degradation of a portion of the fluid system component, a decision block <NUM> for deciding if the response is problematic, and an issuance block <NUM> for issuing an instruction to address the problem if the decision block <NUM> decides that the response is problematic (see, e.g., the "yes" decision branch). As shown, where the decision block <NUM> decides that the response is not problematic, the method <NUM> may continue to the generation block <NUM>.

The method <NUM> may be utilized, for example, to monitor degradation of at least a portion of the fluid system component using one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions. As to a problematic response, such a response may be indicative of a lack of degradation (e.g., too slow of a rate of degradation, etc.) and/or too fast of a rate of degradation. As to addressing such a problem, one or more actions may be taken, which may include one or more of chemical treatment and/or electrical treatment that may aim to adjust or otherwise control degradation.

<FIG> shows an example of a method <NUM> that includes a deployment block <NUM> for deploying a fluid system component (e.g., in a surface and/or a subsurface environment), a generation block <NUM> for generating a piezoelectric response to one or more forces applied to the fluid system component, a decision block <NUM> for deciding if the response is problematic, and an issuance block <NUM> for issuing an instruction to address the problem if the decision block <NUM> decides that the response is problematic (see, e.g., the "yes" decision branch). As shown, where the decision block <NUM> decides that the response is not problematic, the method <NUM> may continue to the generation block <NUM>.

The method <NUM> may be utilized, for example, to monitor force applied to at least a portion of the fluid system component using one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions. As to a problematic response, such a response may be indicative of too much force and/or too little force. As to addressing such a problem, one or more actions may be taken, which may include one or more of adjusting a flow rate, adjusting a chemical treatment and/or adjusting an electrical treatment that may aim to adjust or otherwise control force experienced by the fluid system component.

As an example, one or more of the method <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> may be performed for a particular fluid system component. For example, consider a ball and seat where the seat is set within a conduit and where the ball is to be deployed to sit in the seat to block flow in the conduit. In such an example, scale may be an issue as scale on the seat may cause the ball to sit inappropriately such that leakage occurs resulting in a lack of desired fluid isolation. In such an example, force experienced by the seat may be different than if the ball and the seat formed a seal as leakage may result in a decrease in force. In such an example, where the ball and/or the seat are degradable, one or more "smart" portions of the seat and/or the ball may generate a signal and/or cease to generate a signal responsive to degradation where, when measured with respect to time, a rate or rates of degradation may be determined. In response, a fluid system operation may be adjusted or otherwise controlled such that the fluid system operation proceeds according to a plan and/or for a particular desired purpose.

As an example, a fluid system component can be a "smart" component for making pressure measurements, for example, including sealing pressure (e.g., behind elastomers, etc.), displacement measurement (e.g., location sensor, etc.), strain measurement, etc..

As an example, a piezoelectric and graphene region can be part of a relatively long cylindrical assembly, tubular structure, a window, a plug, etc..

As an example, a piezoelectric and graphene region can be part of a fastener (e.g., nuts, bolts, threads, etc.), which may provide an ability to measure assembly torque.

<FIG> and <FIG> show an example of an environment <NUM>, an example of a portion of a completion <NUM>, an example of equipment <NUM> and examples of assemblies <NUM> and <NUM>, which may be utilized in one or more completions operations. As an example, the equipment <NUM> may include a rig, a turntable, a pump, drilling equipment, pumping equipment, equipment for deploying an assembly, a part of an assembly, etc. As an example, the equipment <NUM> may include one or more controllers <NUM>. As an example, a controller may include one or more processors, memory and instructions stored in memory that are executable by a processor, for example, to control one or more pieces of equipment (e.g., motors, pumps, sensors, etc.). As an example, the equipment <NUM> may be deployed at least in part at a well site and, optionally, in part at a remote site.

In <FIG>, the environment <NUM> includes a subterranean formation into which a bore <NUM> extends where a tool <NUM> such as, for example, a drill string is disposed in the bore <NUM>. As an example, the bore <NUM> may be defined in part by an angle (Θ); noting that while the bore <NUM> is shown as being deviated, it may be vertical (e.g., or include one or more vertical sections along with one or more deviated sections). As shown in an enlarged view with respect to an r, z coordinate system (e.g., a cylindrical coordinate system), a portion of the bore <NUM> includes casings <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> having casing shoes <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>. As shown, cement annuli <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> are disposed between the bore <NUM> and the casings <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM>. Cement such as the cement annuli <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> can support and protect casings such as the casings <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> and when cement is disposed throughout various portions of a wellbore such as the wellbore <NUM>, cement may help achieve zonal isolation.

In the example of <FIG>, the bore <NUM> has been drilled in sections or segments beginning with a large diameter section (see, e.g., r<NUM>) followed by an intermediate diameter section (see, e.g., r<NUM>) and a smaller diameter section (see, e.g., r<NUM>). As an example, a large diameter section may be a surface casing section, which may be <NUM> metre (three feet) or more in diameter and extend down hundreds or thousands of metres (several hundred feet to several thousand feet). A surface casing section may aim to prevent washout of loose unconsolidated formations. As to an intermediate casing section, it may aim to isolate and protect high pressure zones, guard against lost circulation zones, etc. As an example, intermediate casing may be set at about <NUM> feet (e.g., about <NUM>) and extend lower with one or more intermediate casing portions of decreasing diameter (e.g., in a range from about <NUM> (thirteen inches) to about <NUM> (five inches) in diameter). A so-called production casing section may extend below an intermediate casing section and, upon completion, be the longest running section within a wellbore (e.g., a production casing section may be hundreds or thousands of metres (thousands of feet) in length). As an example, production casing may be located in a target zone where the casing is perforated for flow of fluid into a bore of the casing.

A liner may be a casing (e.g., a completion component) that may be installed via a liner hanger system. As an example, a liner hanger system may include various features such as, for example, one or more of the features of the assembly <NUM> and/or the assembly <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG>, the assembly <NUM> can include a pump down plug <NUM>, a setting ball <NUM>, a handling sub with a junk bonnet and setting tool extension <NUM>, a rotating dog assembly (RDA) <NUM>, an extension(s) <NUM>, a mechanical running tool <NUM>, a hydraulic running tool <NUM>, a hydromechanical running tool <NUM>, a retrievable cementing bushing <NUM>, a slick joint assembly <NUM> and/or a liner wiper plug <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the assembly <NUM> can include a liner top packer with a polished bore receptacle (PBR) <NUM>, a coupling(s) <NUM>, a mechanical liner hanger <NUM>, a hydraulic liner hanger <NUM>, a hydraulic liner hanger <NUM>, a liner(s) <NUM>, a landing collar with a ball seat <NUM>, a landing collar without a ball seat <NUM>, a float collar <NUM>, a liner joint or joints <NUM> and/or <NUM>, a float shoe <NUM> and/or a reamer float shoe <NUM>.

One or more pieces of equipment of <FIG> or <FIG> can include graphene as formed, to be part of a circuit that can generate a signal, which may be an inherent signal or a signal that is altered (e.g., responsive to force, degradation, etc.). As shown in <FIG>, the tool <NUM> may experience one or more of tension, torque (e.g., torsion) and compression. Where the tool <NUM> includes one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions, the tool <NUM> may be a smart tool that can generate a signal or signals responsive to one or more of tension, torsion and compression.

As an example, a method can include setting a liner hanger, releasing a running tool, cementing a liner and setting a liner top packer. As an example, a method can include pumping heavy fluid (e.g., cement) down an annulus from a point above a liner hanger and a liner top packer. In such an example, stress on a formation may be reduced when compared to a method that pumps heavy fluid (e.g., cement) up such an annulus. For example, stress may be reduced as back pressure developed during pumping may be contained in between a casing and a landing string.

As an example, a production well may experience a decline in production (e.g., production rate as a fluid flow rate). In such an example, one or more techniques, technologies, etc., may be utilized to assist and/or enhance production (e.g., consider one or more enhanced oil recovery (EOR) approaches, etc.). As an example, artificial lift technology may be utilized to assist production of fluid(s) from a well that is in fluid communication with a reservoir. Artificial lift technology can add energy to fluid to enhance production of the fluid. Artificial lift systems can include rod pumping systems, gas lift systems and electric submersible pump (ESP) systems. As an example, an artificial lift pumping system can utilize a surface power source to drive a downhole pump assembly. As an example, a beam and crank assembly may be utilized to create reciprocating motion in a sucker-rod string that connects to a downhole pump assembly. In such an example, the pump can include a plunger and valve assembly that converts the reciprocating motion to fluid movement (e.g., lifting the fluid against gravity, etc.). As an example, an artificial lift gas lift system can provide for injection of gas into production tubing to reduce the hydrostatic pressure of a fluid column. In such an example, a resulting reduction in pressure can allow reservoir fluid to enter a wellbore at a higher flow rate. A gas lift system can provide for conveying injection gas down a tubing-casing annulus where it can enter a production train through one or more gas-lift valves (e.g., a series of gas-lift valves, etc.). As an example, an electric submersible pump (ESP) can include a stack of impeller and diffuser stages where the impellers are operatively coupled to a shaft driven by an electric motor. As an example, an electric submersible pump (ESP) can include a piston that is operatively coupled to a shaft driven by an electric motor, for example, where at least a portion of the shaft may include one or more magnets and form part of the electric motor.

Examples of artificial lift equipment can include a gas lift (GL) system, a rod pumping (RP) system, and an ESP system. Such equipment may be disposed at least in part in a downhole environment to facilitate production of fluid; noting that a pump system (e.g., RP and/or ESP) may be utilized to move fluid to a location other than a surface location (e.g., consider injection to inject fluid into a subterranean region, etc.). A gas lift system operates at least in part on buoyancy as injected gas may be expected to rise due to buoyancy in a direction that is opposite gravity; whereas, a RP or an ESP may operate via mechanical movement of physical components to drive fluid in a desired direction, which may be with or against gravity.

<FIG> shows an example of equipment in various states <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>. As shown, the equipment can include a casing <NUM> that include various components <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>. For example, the component <NUM> may define a bore <NUM> and the component <NUM> may define a bore <NUM> where the component <NUM> includes features (e.g., reduced diameter, conical shape, receptacle, etc.) that can catch a ring component <NUM> that is operatively coupled to a plug component <NUM> where the ring component <NUM> and the plug component <NUM> may position and seat a plug <NUM> in the casing <NUM>. As an example, a seal may be formed by the plug <NUM> with respect to the plug component <NUM> and/or the ring component <NUM> and, for example, a seal may be formed by the ring component <NUM> with respect to the component <NUM>. In such an approach, the seals may be formed in part via fluid pressure in a manner where increased pressure acts to increase seal integrity (e.g., reduce clearances that may be subject to leakage). As an example, the ring component <NUM> may be an upper component (e.g., a proximal component) of a plug seat and the plug component <NUM> may be a lower component (e.g., a distal component) of the plug seat.

As shown in the state <NUM>, the plug <NUM> may be seated such that the bore <NUM> (e.g., of a first zone) is separated (e.g., isolated) from the bore <NUM> (e.g., of a second zone) such that fluid pressure in the bore <NUM> (see, e.g., P<NUM>) may be increased to a level beyond fluid pressure in the bore <NUM> (see, e.g., P<NUM>). Where the plug <NUM> and the plug component <NUM> are degradable, for example, upon contact with fluid that may pressurize the bore <NUM>, degradation of the plug <NUM> and the plug component <NUM> may transition the equipment from the state <NUM> to the state <NUM>. As shown in the state <NUM>, fluid may pass from the bore <NUM> to the bore <NUM>, for example, via an opening of the ring component <NUM>. Where the ring component <NUM> is degradable, for example, upon contact with fluid in the bore <NUM>, degradation of the ring component <NUM> may transition the equipment from the state <NUM> to the state <NUM>. In the state <NUM>, the casing <NUM> may be the remaining equipment of the state <NUM> (e.g., the plug <NUM>, the plug component <NUM> and the ring component <NUM> are at least in part degraded).

As an example, the plug <NUM>, the plug component <NUM> and the ring component <NUM> may be components of a dissolvable plug and perforation system that may be used to isolate zones during stimulation. Such equipment may be implemented in, for example, cemented, uncemented, vertical, deviated, or horizontal bores (e.g., in shale, sandstone, dolomite, etc.).

As an example, the plug component <NUM> and the ring component <NUM> may be conveyed in a bore via a pump down operation (e.g., which may move the components <NUM> and <NUM> along a bore axis direction). As an example, a component or components may include adjustable features, for example, that allow a change in diameter to facilitate seating in a receptacle disposed in a bore. For example, a tool may interact with a component or components to cause a change in diameter or diameters (e.g., a change in form of one or more components). In the changed state, the component or components may catch and seat in a receptacle disposed in a bore (e.g., seat in a shoulder of a receptacle component).

As an example, the plug component <NUM> and the ring component <NUM> may be seated in a receptacle by a tool that may include one or more perforators. Once seated, the tool may be repositioned to perforate casing and form channels (e.g., in a layer or layers of rock). As an example, repositioning may occur multiple times, for example, to form multiple sets of perforations and multiple sets of channels. As an example, after perforating and channel formation, the plug <NUM> may be pumped down to contact the plug component <NUM> and/or the ring component <NUM>, for example, to form a seal that can isolate one zone from another zone (e.g., one interval from another interval). Fluid pressure may be increased in an isolated zone as defined by the plug <NUM>, the plug component <NUM> and the ring component <NUM> as positioned in a receptacle disposed in a bore such that the fluid enters channels via perforations of the isolated zone and generates fractures (e.g., new fractures, reactivated fractures, etc.).

As an example, a method can include blending of water reactive or degradable powder with one or more other powders where the water reactive or degradable powder is in a range of about <NUM> percent to about <NUM> percent of the weight of a blend. In such an example, a powder may be age-hardenable non-degradable powders (e.g., consider aluminum <NUM> and <NUM> series); may be strain hardenable non-degradable powders (e.g., consider aluminum <NUM> series, etc.); may be a powder that includes highly thermally stable nanocrystalline grains processed by cryomilling; may be a powder that includes highly thermally stable nanocrystalline grains processed by cryomilling that are further stabilized by dispersoids (e.g., SiC, B<NUM>C, Al<NUM>O<NUM>, etc.), for example, to produce a metal matrix composite (MMC); etc. As an example, a method can include blending water reactive or degradable powder with material that includes highly thermally stable nanocrystalline grains processed by cryomilling and optionally further blending dispersoids (e.g., SiC, B<NUM>C, Al<NUM>O<NUM>, etc.) to form a MMC.

As an example, a metal matrix composite (MMC) may be utilized as a support body as part of a component that may be a degradable component (e.g., a degradable downhole component, etc.).

<FIG> shows an example plot <NUM> of component dimension versus time of degradation for various temperatures and an example of an assembly <NUM> that includes components <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> that may be made by consolidating particulate materials, an example, degradable polymeric materials <NUM> and <NUM>, which may optionally be included in an assembly such as, for example, the assembly <NUM>.

As indicated, degradation of a component may be determined by a physical characteristic of the component and an environmental condition such as, for example, temperature. For example, fluid at a temperature of about <NUM> degrees C may cause a component to degrade more rapidly than fluid at a temperature of about <NUM> degrees C. As an example, a component may be constructed to include one or more layers where at least one layer includes a degradable material, which may include a dimension (e.g., thickness, etc.) that is based at least in part on information such as the information of the plot <NUM> of <FIG>. As an example, a layer may be a degradable polymeric material layer. As an example, a layer may be or include a degradable piezoelectric and graphene region. In such an example, degradation of a matrix material may result in release of material such as PZT and graphene where such material is relatively small in size and can flow in a fluid stream with minimal risk of plugging an opening (e.g., a port, a perforation, etc.).

As an example, the assembly <NUM> may include one component that degrades at a rate that differs from another component. For example, the plug component <NUM> (e.g., a ball, etc.) may degrade more rapidly than the plug seat component <NUM> (e.g., a ring that can include a plug seat and that may act to locate the plug seat). As shown in <FIG>, the assembly <NUM> can include a plurality of pieces where such pieces may be formed according to desired dissolution rate, strength and/or ductility.

One or more pieces of equipment of <FIG> or <FIG> can include graphene, as formed, to be part of a circuit that can generate a signal, which may be an inherent signal or a signal that is altered (e.g., responsive to force, degradation, etc.).

<FIG> shows an example of a system <NUM> that includes various types of equipment where at least some of the equipment may scale and/or affect a scaling mechanism. For example, gas lift equipment can experience scale formation and, for example, may alter one or more of pressure, temperature, chemistry, phase dynamics, etc. In the example of <FIG>, various fluid system components are at surface and various fluid system components are subsurface; noting that various fluid system component can extend from a position that is subsurface to a position that is at surface.

In <FIG>, the system <NUM> is shown with an example of a geologic environment <NUM> that includes equipment and an example of a method <NUM>. The system <NUM> includes a subterranean formation <NUM> with a well <NUM>. Injection gas is provided to the well <NUM> via a compressor <NUM> (e.g., a fluid pump, etc.) and a regulator <NUM> (e.g., a fluid controller). The injection gas can assist with lifting fluid that flows from the subterranean formation <NUM> to the well <NUM>. The lifted fluid, including injected gas, may flow to a manifold <NUM> (e.g., a fluid system component with multiple fluid inlets and/or fluid outlets), for example, where fluid from a number of wells may be combined. As shown in the example of <FIG>, the manifold <NUM> is operatively coupled to a separator <NUM>, which may separate components of the fluid. For example, the separator <NUM> may separate oil, water and gas components as substantially separate phases of a multiphase fluid. In such an example, oil may be directed to an oil storage facility <NUM> via tubing while gas may be directed to the compressor <NUM> via tubing, for example, for re-injection, storage and/or transport to another location. As an example, water may be directed to a water discharge, a water storage facility, etc..

As shown in <FIG>, the geologic environment <NUM> is fitted with well equipment <NUM>, which includes a well-head <NUM> (e.g., a Christmas tree, etc.), an inlet conduit <NUM> for flow of compressed gas, an outlet conduit <NUM> for flow of produced fluid, a casing <NUM>, a production conduit <NUM>, and a packer <NUM> that forms a seal between the casing <NUM> and the production conduit <NUM>. As shown, fluid may enter the casing <NUM> (e.g., via perforations) and then enter a lumen of the production conduit <NUM>, for example, due to a pressure differential between the fluid in the subterranean geologic environment <NUM> and the lumen of the production conduit <NUM> at an opening of the production conduit <NUM>. Where the inlet conduit <NUM> for flow of compressed gas is used to flow gas to the annular space between the casing <NUM> and the production conduit <NUM>, a mandrel <NUM> operatively coupled to the production conduit <NUM> that includes a pocket <NUM> that seats a gas lift valve <NUM> that may regulate the introduction of the compressed gas into the lumen of the production conduit <NUM>. In such an example, the compressed gas introduced may facilitate flow of fluid upwardly to the well-head <NUM> (e.g., opposite a direction of gravity) where the fluid may be directed away from the well-head <NUM> via the outlet conduit <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the method <NUM> can include a flow block <NUM> for flowing gas to an annulus (e.g., or, more generally, a space exterior to a production conduit fitted with a gas lift valve), an injection block <NUM> for injecting gas from the annulus into a production conduit via a gas lift valve or gas lift valves and a lift block <NUM> for lifting fluid in the production conduit due in part to buoyancy imparted by the injected gas.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, various types of fluid system components can be in contact with one or more types of fluids. As an example, one or more of such fluid system components can include one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions.

As an example, where a gas lift valve includes one or more actuators, such actuators may optionally be utilized to control, at least in part, operation of a gas lift valve (e.g., one or more valve members of a gas lift valve). As an example, surface equipment can include one or more control lines that may be operatively coupled to a gas lift valve or gas lift valves, for example, where a gas lift valve may respond to a control signal or signals via the one or more control lines. As an example, surface equipment can include one or more power lines that may be operatively coupled to a gas lift valve or gas lift valves, for example, where a gas lift valve may respond to power delivered via the one or more power lines. As an example, a system can include one or more control lines and one or more power lines where, for example, a line may be a control line, a power line or a control and power line.

As an example, a production process may optionally utilize one or more fluid pumps such as, for example, an electric submersible pump (e.g., consider a centrifugal pump, a rod pump, etc.). As an example, a production process may implement one or more so-called "artificial lift" technologies. An artificial lift technology may operate by adding energy to fluid, for example, to initiate, enhance, etc. production of fluid.

<FIG> shows an example of a system <NUM> that includes a casing <NUM>, a production conduit <NUM> and a mandrel <NUM> that includes a pocket <NUM> that seats a gas lift valve <NUM>. As shown, the mandrel <NUM> can include a main longitudinal axis (zM) and a side pocket longitudinal axis (zP) that is offset a radial distance from the main longitudinal axis (zM). In the example of <FIG>, the axes (zM and zP) are shown as being substantially parallel such that a bore of the pocket <NUM> is parallel to a lumen of the mandrel <NUM>. Also shown in <FIG> are two examples of cross-sectional profiles for the mandrel <NUM>, for example, along a line A-A. As shown, a mandrel may include a circular cross-sectional profile or another shaped profile such as, for example, an oval profile.

As an example, a completion may include multiple instances of the mandrel <NUM>, for example, where each pocket of each instance may include a gas lift valve where, for example, one or more of the gas lift valves may differ in one or more characteristics from one or more other of the gas lift valves (e.g., pressure settings, etc.).

As shown in the example of <FIG>, the mandrel <NUM> can include one or more openings that provide for fluid communication with fluid in an annulus (e.g., gas and/or other fluid), defined by an outer surface of the mandrel <NUM> and an inner surface of the casing <NUM>, via a gas lift valve <NUM> disposed in the pocket <NUM>. For example, the gas lift valve <NUM> may be disposed in the pocket <NUM> where a portion of the gas lift valve <NUM> is in fluid communication with an annulus (e.g., with casing fluid) and where a portion of the gas lift valve <NUM> is in fluid communication with a lumen (e.g., with tubing fluid). In such an example, fluid may flow from the annulus to the lumen (e.g., bore) to assist with lift of fluid in the lumen or, for example, fluid may flow from the lumen to the annulus. The pocket <NUM> may include an opening that may be oriented downhole and one or more openings that may be oriented in a pocket wall, for example, directed radially to a lumen space. As an example, the pocket <NUM> may include a production conduit lumen side opening (e.g., an axial opening) for placement, retrieval, replacement, adjustment, etc. of a gas lift valve. For example, through use of a tool, the gas lift valve <NUM> may be accessed. As an example, where a gas lift valve includes circuitry such as a battery or batteries, a tool may optionally provide for charging and/or replacement of a battery or batteries.

In the example of <FIG>, gas is illustrated as entering from the annulus to the gas lift valve <NUM> as disposed in the pocket <NUM>. Such gas can exit at a downhole end of the gas lift valve <NUM> where the gas can assist in lifting fluid in the lumen of the mandrel <NUM> (e.g., as supplied via a bore of production tubing, etc.).

As an example, a side pocket mandrel may be configured with particular dimensions, for example, according to one or more dimensions of commercially available equipment. As an example, a side pocket mandrel may be defined in part by a tubing dimension (e.g., tubing size). For example, consider tubing sizes of about <NUM> in (e.g., about <NUM>), of about <NUM> in (e.g., about <NUM>) and of about <NUM> in (e.g., about <NUM>). As to types of valves that may be suitable for installation in a side pocket mandrel, consider dummy valves, shear orifice valves, circulating valves, chemical injection valves and waterflood flow regulator valves. As an example, a side pocket may include a bore configured for receipt of a device that includes an outer diameter of about <NUM> in (e.g., about <NUM>), or about <NUM> in. (e.g., about <NUM>) or more. As mentioned, a running tool, a pulling tool, a kickover tool, etc. may be used for purposes of installation, retrieval, adjustment, etc. of a device with respect to a side pocket. As an example, a tool may be positionable via a slickline technique.

As an example, a side pocket mandrel may include a circular and/or an oval cross-sectional profile (e.g., or other shaped profile). As an example, a side pocket mandrel may include an exhaust port (e.g., at a downhole end of a side pocket).

As an example, a mandrel may be fit with a gas lift valve that may be, for example, a valve according to one or more specifications such as an injection pressure-operated (IPO) valve specification. As an example, a positive-sealing check valve may be used such as a valve qualified to meet API-19G1 and G2 industry standards and pressure barrier qualifications. For example, with a test pressure rating of about <NUM>,<NUM> psi (e.g., about <NUM>,<NUM> kPa), a valve may form a metal-to-metal barrier between production tubing and a casing annulus that may help to avoid undesired communication (e.g., or reverse flow) and to help mitigate risks associated with gas lift valve check systems.

One or more pieces of equipment of <FIG> or <FIG> can include graphene as formed to be part of a circuit that can generate a signal, which may be an inherent signal or a signal that is altered (e.g., responsive to force, degradation, etc.).

<FIG> shows an example of a system that includes a tubular assembly <NUM> that includes a tubing <NUM>, a valve <NUM>, gas lift equipment <NUM>, a tubing crossover, and perforations <NUM>.

Scale can occur on various time scales. Under some conditions, scale may form in tubing of a production well within a day to an extent that production drops by more than ten percent. In a North Sea production well in the Miller field, production fall from approximately <NUM>,<NUM> B/D (e.g., <NUM><NUM>/d) to approximately zero in <NUM> hours. Scale can develop in formation pores near a wellbore and reduce formation porosity and permeability. Scale can block flow by clogging perforations or by forming a thick lining in production tubing. Scale can coat and damage downhole equipment, such as, for example, valves, gas-lift mandrels, etc..

The Miller field is a deep reservoir under the North Sea, approximately <NUM> kilometers north-east of Peterhead in UKCS Blocks <NUM>/7b and <NUM>/8b. The Miller reservoir is located at a depth of approximately <NUM> meters below sea level and has an estimated area of <NUM> square kilometers and a maximum thickness of approximately <NUM> meters. Reservoir pressure is approximately <NUM>,<NUM> kilopascals and reservoir temperature is approximately <NUM> degrees C. Oil produced from the Miller field has been measured to have a gravity of approximately <NUM> degrees API and a sulfur content of approximately <NUM> percent.

Gas export from the Miller field utilized a sour gas pipeline system that includes a <NUM>, <NUM>-inch-diameter (<NUM>) sea-line to St. Fergus and then onward via a <NUM> <NUM>-inch-diameter (<NUM>) land-line to Peterhead Power Station. Oil from the Miller field was pumped via a <NUM>-long, <NUM>-inch-diameter (<NUM>) export pipeline to the Brae A platform and then onwards via the Forties pipeline system to the mainland; noting that a <NUM>, <NUM>-inch-diameter (<NUM>) gas pipeline between the Brae B and various Miller field offshore platforms allowed gas to be exported from Brae for use in the Miller field (e.g., for enhancing oil recovery).

As explained, various types of fluid system components can include one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions. As an example, one or more of the aforementioned fluid systems of a field and/or in fluid communication with a field may include one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions.

As mentioned, one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions of one or more fluid system components may be utilized to provide signal(s) as to scaling. In various instances, wells producing water can be likely to develop deposits of inorganic scales. Such scales can and do coat various types of fluid system components (e.g., perforations, casing, production tubulars, valves, pumps, and downhole completion equipment, safety equipment, gas lift mandrels, etc.). If allowed to proceed without mitigation, scaling can limit production and may result eventually in shutting in a well (e.g., well abandonment).

Scale-removal techniques can involve shutting down production, moving in a workover rig to pull damaged tubing out of a well, treating for scale at the surface of a well, replacing tubing, etc..

As an example, one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions of one or more fluid system components can be utilized to detect scaling and may be utilized to detect degree of scaling. As explained, various fluid system components may include anti-scaling features (e.g., anti-scalant(s), coatings, etc.). As an example, a signal or signals from one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions may be utilized for determining whether to perform an operation that aims to mitigate or otherwise address scaling. As an example, such a signal or signals may be part of an automated, semi-automated and/or manual control system that can control such an operation or operations.

<FIG> shows some examples of scale in tubing. The location of scale deposits in tubing can vary from downhole perforations <NUM> to the surface where it constrains production through tubing restrictions, fish, valves <NUM> and gas-lift equipment <NUM>. Scale may be layered and sometimes covered with a waxy or asphahene coating (insaft). Pitting and corrosion on steel can develop under scale, for example, due to bacteria and sour gas, which can diminish steel integrity (e.g., weaken steel tubing).

In <FIG>, fish can refer to one or more items in a wellbore. Fish can be junk metal, a hand tool, a length of drill pipe or drill collars, or an expensive MWD and directional drilling package. A lost or damage component may be referred to as "the fish", As equipment put into a wellbore tends to be accurately measured and sketched, an appropriate fishing tool may be selected if the equipment is to be fished out of the hole.

As to some examples of scale, consider carbonates (Ca(II), Mg(II), and Fe(II)), sulfates (Ca(II), Ba(II), Sr(II), and Ra(II)), oxides and hydroxides (Fe(II), Fe(III), Mg(II) and Cu(II)), sulfides (Fe(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II)), sodium chloride (NaCl), etc..

As to carbonate scales, calcium carbonate scale tends to be common in oil field well environments (e.g., North Sea, etc.). Various deposits can include calcite, which tends to be a relatively thermodynamically stable crystalline polymorph of CaCO<NUM>. Aragonite and vaterite are two polymorphs in order of decreasing thermodynamic stability. While the foregoing crystals have the chemical formula CaCO<NUM>, they differ in crystal structure. Other known minerals include magnesite (MgCO<NUM>) and iron carbonate siderite (FeCO<NUM>).

Formation water may have a concentration of <NUM>,<NUM> - <NUM>,<NUM>/l TDS and where mineral composition can have a complex dependence on mineral digenesis. In carbonate and calcite cemented sandstone reservoirs, there tends to be a high concentration of divalent calcium (Ca+) and magnesium (Mg+) ions. Scale tends to occur responsive to a change in the chemistry equilibrium. Interactions in chemistry can be complex; noting the following phenomena can be helpful in understanding scale deposition: Carbon dioxide dissolves in water to form carbonic acid and carbonic acid dissociates to form carbonate and bicarbonate, and, by Le Chatelier's principle, a reaction will move to the right with respect to the flowing equilibrium equation, in attempt to increase the pressure by forming more CO<NUM> gas:.

2HCO<NUM>- = CO<NUM><NUM>- + H<NUM>O + CO<NUM>.

Precipitation can produce a further pressure drop, leading to further precipitation. As a result of such a reaction, pH tends to increase and calcium carbonate can become supersaturated enough to precipitate. The kinetics of the reaction can be a function of temperature. As explained, various chemical reactions can be linked where a parameter may affect one or more other parameters.

Carbonate scale can occur at points where there is a pressure drop, which can be at one or more points in a system. For example, it can be downstream, at topside, at a choke valve, a safety valve, etc. Calcium carbonate tends not to deposit in a well due to a CO<NUM> high concentration and hence a low pH value. However it may occur in a producing well responsive to pressure decline.

As explained, scaling can pose various challenges, particularly in production, whether downhole, subsea, etc. Scaling can impact hydrocarbon production, particularly in deepwater, high pressure and high temperature (HPHT) production, and can be a differentiator for oil service companies and tool manufacturers.

As explained, various types of scale and scaling mechanisms exist. When caused by water, as often the case in hydrocarbon production, scaling is caused by the inverse solubility of salts that have recrystallized from solution onto equipment surfaces. Scaling can occur as a result of changes in water composition (e.g., water mingling), pH, temperature, pressure, outgassing, etc. (e.g., a parameter or parameters that can influence salt solubility).

Calcium carbonate can be a common constituent of scales, particularly in high-temperature CO<NUM> wells. And, as mentioned, other scales forming salts may include one or more of magnesium carbonate, calcium sulfate, barium sulfate, strontium sulfate, iron carbonate, iron sulfide, among others. Such scale forming salts can originate from rocks in contact with subterranean hydrocarbon and/or water. Sulfate scales can be characteristic of reservoir water mingling; having been observed at sand screens, among others.

One or more pieces of equipment of <FIG> include graphene as formed to be part of a circuit that can generate a signal, which may be an inherent signal or a signal that is altered (e.g., responsive to force, degradation, etc.).

As an example, one or more pieces of equipment in the examples of <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> include graphene as converted from a polymeric material. As explained, graphene can be formed to be part of a circuit that can provide a signal, for example, as to one or more conditions of one or more fluid system components. A surface component and/or a subsurface component (e.g., a downhole component, etc.) may include graphene as formed to be part of a circuit that can provide a signal during one or more oil and/or gas related operations.

In accordance with the present disclosure, a fluid system component can include a support body that includes a surface; and an electrical circuit supported at least in part by the surface, where the electrical circuit includes graphene adjacent to a composite material that includes a polymer which is convertible to graphene and which is adjacent to the graphene, and where the electrical circuit generates a signal responsive to deformation of at least a portion of the electrical circuit. The graphene includes graphene that is from the polymer convertible to graphene. For example, a laser or other energy source may be utilized to convert a polymer to graphene. Where a laser is utilized, the graphene may be referred to as laser-induced-graphene (LIG). The polymer can be part of a composite material.

A composite material can include at least one ceramic material. As an example, a composite material can include at least <NUM> percent by weight of polymer. As an example, a fluid system component can include PEEK as a polymer, which is part of a composite material where at least a portion of the PEEK is converted to graphene, for example, to form one or more conductive elements of an electrical circuit (e.g., one or more electrical conductors of an electrical circuit).

A fluid system component can include an electrical circuit that includes a piezoelectric material electrically coupled to at least a portion of graphene as converted from one or more polymers, where deformation of the piezoelectric material generates a signal.

A fluid system component can include a support body that is metallic and electrically conductive. In such an example, at least a portion of a composite material can electrically insulate the support body from at least a portion of graphene as converted from one or more polymers.

A fluid system component can include a composite material that is degradable and/or a support body that is degradable.

A fluid system component can include graphene, converted from a polymer or polymers, that is disposed in two layers to define a capacitor where deformation of an electrical circuit formed in part by the graphene alters capacitance of the capacitor.

As an example, a fluid system component can include graphene, converted from a polymer or polymers, that is disposed in two layers where a piezoelectric material is disposed at least in part between the two layers. In such an example, the piezoelectric material may respond to force (e.g., pressure) such that one or more electrical signals can be generated in at least a portion of the graphene. As an example, force can be fluid force, degradation force, mechanical force (e.g., rock movement, component movement, etc.), etc..

As an example, in a seismically active region, one or more fluid system components may provide for sensing in response to movement caused by seismic activity. For example, consider a fluid system component in a borehole, which may be a wellbore of a completed well. Where an earthquake occurs, the fluid system component may sense movement and/or one or more forces experienced by the fluid system component. For example, consider a crack in the fluid system component, a shift in force applied by rock to one side of the fluid system component, etc. In such examples, a fluid system component that includes one or more piezoelectric and graphene regions may provide for assessment of the fluid system component responsive to seismic activity, which may be natural and/or artificial (e.g., consider hydraulic fracturing, blasting, earth moving operations, etc.).

As an example, a fluid system component can include a cover material that is disposed over at least a portion of graphene where the graphene is converted from one or more polymers. In such an example, the cover material can include an anti-scalant. For example, the cover material may act to reduce scaling when the cover material is exposed to water that includes various minerals. As an example, an electrical circuit that is formed in part by the graphene may provide for sensing a state of the cover material, for example, to determine how well it is performing to reduce scaling. Where scaling is not sufficiently reducing, the electrical circuit may provide a signal that can call for one or more anti-scaling operations.

As mentioned, a support body can be degradable. For example, consider degradation of a support body that deforms an electrical circuit that is formed at least in part by graphene as converted from one or more polymers.

As an example, a fluid system component can include an electrical circuit that is degradable responsive to exposure to fluid, which may be fluid in a downhole environment, an offshore environment, etc..

As an example, a method can include providing a fluid system component that includes a support body that includes a surface and an electrical circuit supported at least in part by the surface, where the electrical circuit includes graphene adjacent to a composite material that is a polymer convertible to graphene, and where the electrical circuit generates a signal responsive to deformation of at least a portion of the electrical circuit; performing a fluid operation involving the fluid system component; and measuring the signal responsive to the fluid operation deforming at least a portion of the electrical circuit. In such an example, the method can include controlling the fluid operation based at least in part on measuring the signal.

As an example, a method can include depositing a composite material that includes a polymer convertible to graphene on a support body of a fluid system component; and converting a portion of the polymer to graphene to form an electrical circuit, where deformation of the electrical circuit generates a signal. In such an example, the method can include depositing a cover material over at least a portion of the graphene and/or the method can include depositing an insulator directly on the support body prior to depositing the composite material on the support body, where the insulator electrically insulates at least a portion of the graphene from the support body.

Claim 1:
A fluid system component (<NUM>) comprising:
a support body (<NUM>) that comprises a surface; and
an electrical circuit supported at least in part by the surface, wherein the electrical circuit comprises graphene (<NUM>) adjacent to a composite material (<NUM>) that comprises a polymer (<NUM>) which is convertible to graphene, wherein a prior conversion of a portion of the polymer (<NUM>) has resulted in the graphene (<NUM>) adjacent to the composite material (<NUM>), wherein the polymer (<NUM>), which is the polymer that has not been converted to graphene, is adjacent to the graphene (<NUM>), and wherein the electrical circuit generates a signal responsive to deformation of at least a portion of the electrical circuit.