# Copolymer SJ-1 as a Fluid Loss Additive for Drilling Fluid with High Content of Salt and Calcium

Authors: Hongping Quan; Huan Li; Zhiyu Huang; Tailiang Zhang; Shanshan Dai
Journal: International Journal of Polymer Science
 (2014)

---

## Abstract

A ternary copolymer of 2-acrylamide-2-methyl propane sulfonic acid (AMPS), acrylamide (AM), and allyl alcohol polyoxyethylene ether (APEG) with a side chain polyoxyethylene ether(
C
2
H
4
O
)
n SJ-1 were designed and synthesized in this work. Good temperature resistance and salt tolerance of “–
SO
3
-” of AMPS, strong absorption ability of “amino-group” of AM, and good hydrability of side chain polyoxyethylene ether (
C
2
H
4
O
)
n of APEG provide SJ-1 excellent properties as a fluid loss additive. The chemical structure of ternary copolymer was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The molecular weight and its distribution were determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The API fluid loss of drilling fluid decreased gradually with the increasing concentration of NaCl and CaCl2 in the mud system. SJ-1 was applied well in the drilling fluid even at a high temperature of 220°C. Results of zeta potential of modified drilling fluid showed the dispersion stability of drilling fluid system. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed the microstructure of the surface of the filter cake obtained from the drilling fluid modified by SJ-1.


---

## Body

## 1. Introduction

Water-based drilling muds including bentonite were well-known and widely used in the petroleum industry recently [1–4]. The main components of water-based drilling fluid are water, salt, insert solids, and clays such as montmorillonite. Among the important functions of water-based drilling fluid were to form filter cake on the wall of the well bore, prevent water leakage, and maintain the stability of the well wall [5]. The properties of the water-based drilling fluid, such as the rheology and filtration loss, are affected by the fluid loss additive. Polymers, which are nontoxic, degradable, and environment friendly [6–8], are the best choice to be used as drilling fluids additives. However, the traditional polymers as fluid loss additive are not stable at the work condition of drilling fluid, especially at high salt condition and high temperatures. The resulting drilling fluids often present poor properties such as high filtration. If the drilling fluid was applied in the high salt or calcium environment, the flocculated structure of clay particles will appear and the value of API fluid loss will increase obviously. Furthermore downhole accident such as borehole collapse will happen in severe case. To solve the problems mentioned above, a novel fluid loss additive SJ-1 was developed in this work [2, 9–11].To make sure the fluid loss additive has an excellent ability of absorption, the monomer with strong absorption groups, such as amino-group, are introduced [12, 13]. To make sure the additive has an excellent ability of salt tolerance, the monomers with stable group which is not sensitive to the cation, such as –
SO
3
-, are introduced [14–16]. To make the fluid loss additive have an excellent ability of temperature resistance, the monomers with inflexibility groups such as big side group are introduced. At the same time, the monomers that are hard to hydrolyze are introduced to get rid of the side effect hydrolysis, such as polyoxyethylene ether (
C
2
H
4
O
)
n [17]. In this work, a good property of filtrate loss control even at high temperatures and salt condition of SJ-1 is synthesized by polymerization of AMPS, AM, and APEG.


## 2. Experimental

### 2.1. Materials

AMPS and AM were from Chengdu Kelong Chemical Reagent Factory (China). APEG-1000 were of industrial grade from Jiangsu Haian petrochemical factory (China). Potassium persulfate, sodium hydroxide, and sodium bisulfite were analytical grade from Chengdu Kelong Chemical Reagent Factory (China).


### 2.2. Synthesis

APEG (0.006 mol) was added in a three-necked flask, using moderate amount of water to dissolve in a heated water bath. And then AMPS (0.029 mol) and AM (0.084 mol) were added to the mixed solution. The pH was adjusted to 7-8 with NaOH. Finally, 0.2 wt% potassium persulfate and sodium bisulfite were added into the system. The reaction was performed under 60°C with stir speed of 300 rmp. After completion of the reaction, the product was extracted with ethanol, shear granulation, vacuum drying, and grinding to obtain a white powdery polymer fluid loss additive. Chemical structure of SJ-1 was shown in Scheme1.Scheme 1
Chemical structure of SJ-1.In laboratory studies, the best parameters of copolymer SJ-1 were obtained: monomer concentration was 15 wt%; molar ratio ofn(AM) : n(AMPS) : n(APEG) was 14 : 5 : 1; the reaction temperature was 60°C; the concentration of monomer initiator was 0.2 wt%.


### 2.3. Characterization

The pellet samples were prepared by pressing the mixture of the SJ-1 and KBr and then measured with FTIR (WQF-520, China) spectrophotometer at range between 4000 and 500 cm−1.The molecular weight distribution of SJ-1 was measured by GPC (Waters e2695, USA). The polymer was dissolved into distilled water forming the solution with concentration of 2 mg/mL. The measurement was performed at the room temperature (23°C) for 90 min.


### 2.4. Sample Preparation

Freshwater base mud containing 4 wt% of sodium bentonite and 0.2 wt% of Na2CO3 was prepared by mixing the raw bentonite, Na2CO3, and freshwater at a certain ratio, stirring for 20 min at a high speed of 10000 rpm, and aging for 24 h at room temperature. Salt-water base mud was prepared by adding different concentration of NaCl into the above freshwater base mud and then submitted to a prehydration period of 24 h. Calcium-water base mud was prepared by adding different concentration of CaCl2 into the above freshwater base mud and then submitted to a prehydration period of 24 h. Polymer based mud was prepared by adding different concentration of SJ-1 into the freshwater base mud, salt-water base mud, and calcium-water base mud, respectively, and then submitted to a prehydration period of 24 h.


### 2.5. Fluid Filtration Property Test

Drilling fluid filtrations were measured according to American Petroleum Institute (API) specifications and Chinese SY/T5621-93. The API filtrate volume (FLAPI) of the mud was determined with a medium-pressure filtration apparatus (ZNS-2 type, China).Apparent viscosity (AV), plastic viscosity (PV), and yield point (YP) were measured by rotational viscometer (ZNN-D6, China) at different temperatures.Aging experiments of bentonite-polymer fluids were carried out in a frequency conversion rolling oven (BRGL-7 type, China) at a series of temperatures for 16 h.The filter cake of the sample was tested by SEM (JSM-7500F, Japan) analysis and the filtrate of the sample was tested by zeta electric potential (Zeta PALS/90plus, Brookhaven, America) at different conditions.


## 2.1. Materials

AMPS and AM were from Chengdu Kelong Chemical Reagent Factory (China). APEG-1000 were of industrial grade from Jiangsu Haian petrochemical factory (China). Potassium persulfate, sodium hydroxide, and sodium bisulfite were analytical grade from Chengdu Kelong Chemical Reagent Factory (China).


## 2.2. Synthesis

APEG (0.006 mol) was added in a three-necked flask, using moderate amount of water to dissolve in a heated water bath. And then AMPS (0.029 mol) and AM (0.084 mol) were added to the mixed solution. The pH was adjusted to 7-8 with NaOH. Finally, 0.2 wt% potassium persulfate and sodium bisulfite were added into the system. The reaction was performed under 60°C with stir speed of 300 rmp. After completion of the reaction, the product was extracted with ethanol, shear granulation, vacuum drying, and grinding to obtain a white powdery polymer fluid loss additive. Chemical structure of SJ-1 was shown in Scheme1.Scheme 1
Chemical structure of SJ-1.In laboratory studies, the best parameters of copolymer SJ-1 were obtained: monomer concentration was 15 wt%; molar ratio ofn(AM) : n(AMPS) : n(APEG) was 14 : 5 : 1; the reaction temperature was 60°C; the concentration of monomer initiator was 0.2 wt%.


## 2.3. Characterization

The pellet samples were prepared by pressing the mixture of the SJ-1 and KBr and then measured with FTIR (WQF-520, China) spectrophotometer at range between 4000 and 500 cm−1.The molecular weight distribution of SJ-1 was measured by GPC (Waters e2695, USA). The polymer was dissolved into distilled water forming the solution with concentration of 2 mg/mL. The measurement was performed at the room temperature (23°C) for 90 min.


## 2.4. Sample Preparation

Freshwater base mud containing 4 wt% of sodium bentonite and 0.2 wt% of Na2CO3 was prepared by mixing the raw bentonite, Na2CO3, and freshwater at a certain ratio, stirring for 20 min at a high speed of 10000 rpm, and aging for 24 h at room temperature. Salt-water base mud was prepared by adding different concentration of NaCl into the above freshwater base mud and then submitted to a prehydration period of 24 h. Calcium-water base mud was prepared by adding different concentration of CaCl2 into the above freshwater base mud and then submitted to a prehydration period of 24 h. Polymer based mud was prepared by adding different concentration of SJ-1 into the freshwater base mud, salt-water base mud, and calcium-water base mud, respectively, and then submitted to a prehydration period of 24 h.


## 2.5. Fluid Filtration Property Test

Drilling fluid filtrations were measured according to American Petroleum Institute (API) specifications and Chinese SY/T5621-93. The API filtrate volume (FLAPI) of the mud was determined with a medium-pressure filtration apparatus (ZNS-2 type, China).Apparent viscosity (AV), plastic viscosity (PV), and yield point (YP) were measured by rotational viscometer (ZNN-D6, China) at different temperatures.Aging experiments of bentonite-polymer fluids were carried out in a frequency conversion rolling oven (BRGL-7 type, China) at a series of temperatures for 16 h.The filter cake of the sample was tested by SEM (JSM-7500F, Japan) analysis and the filtrate of the sample was tested by zeta electric potential (Zeta PALS/90plus, Brookhaven, America) at different conditions.


## 3. Results and Discussion

### 3.1. Chemical Structure and Molecular Weight

The chemical structure of SJ-1 was analyzed by FTIR after being purified; the results were shown in Figure1.Figure 1
FTIR spectrum of polymerization product.A strong absorption peak of 3330.64 cm−1 was assigned to the stretching vibration of N–H. The absorption peaks observed at 2933.20 cm−1 and 2863.77 cm−1 were due to the stretching vibration of –CH3 and –CH2, respectively. The absorption peak of 1673.91 cm−1 was attributed to the stretching peak of C=O. The absorption peak of 1544.70 cm−1 was due to the stretching vibration of C–N, while 1201.43 cm−1 was attributed to C–O–C. Moreover, absorption peaks of 1112.72 cm−1 and 1041.37 cm−1 were according to the bending vibration of –
SO
3
-. Results mentioned above were consistent with the chemical structure of SJ-1 shown in Scheme 1.The molecular weight and its distribution of SJ-1 which was synthesized under the best optimum synthesis condition mentioned in Section2.2 were determined by GPC. The result showed that the weight average molecular weight was 8.1
×
10
5, and the number average molecular was 6.2
×
10
5. Thus, the molecular weight distribution coefficient is 1.29. These all meet the technical requirements for oilfield application [18].


### 3.2. Effect of Concentration of SJ-1 on the Properties of Drilling Fluid

Different concentration of SJ-1 was added to the freshwater base mud. The rheological and API fluid loss properties have been measured by rotational viscometer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Table1.Table 1
Relationship between SJ-1 concentration and fluid loss.
SJ-1 concentration/wt%
AV/mPa·s
PV/mPa·s
YP/Pa
API filter loss/mL
0.0
12.5
7.0
5.62
23.0
0.1
16.0
10.0
6.13
11.8
0.3
19.5
13.0
6.64
11.2
0.6
23.5
16.0
7.67
10.4
0.9
30.0
21.0
9.20
9.4
1.2
37.0
26.0
11.24
9.2
1.5
44.0
31.0
13.29
9.2
1.8
52.5
36.0
16.86
9.1According to Table1, with the increase of loading of SJ-1, the API fluid loss of drilling fluid decreased obviously. The values of fluid loss became stable, when the concentrations of SJ-1 was no less than 1.2 wt%. At the same time, the rheological property of drilling fluid changed as the increase of polymer concentration. SJ-1 contributes to build up the network structure, which results in a viscosity-building ability. If the rheological property of drilling fluid was bad, thinner might be required for the drilling fluid, so the optimum concentration of fluid loss addictive SJ-1 in the freshwater base mud was 1.2 wt%.


### 3.3. Evaluation of Temperature Resistance

1.2 wt% SJ-1 was added to the freshwater base mud, then, rolling in frequency conversion rolling oven for 16 h at different levels of temperature. The rheological and API fluid loss have been measured by rotational viscometer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Table2.Table 2
Fluid loss of drilling fluid changed with aging temperature.
Experimental conditions
AV/mPa·s
PV/mPa·s
YP/Pa
API filter loss/mL
120°C, 16 h
43.5
34.5
9.20
10.6
140°C, 16 h
38.5
32.0
6.64
10.6
160°C, 16 h
20.8
17.0
3.83
11.5
180°C, 16 h
13.0
9.5
3.58
12.1
200°C, 16 h
13.0
11.0
2.04
12.5
220°C, 16 h
12.5
11.0
1.53
13.0The value of API fluid loss of drilling fluid raised with the increase of temperature, when the concentration of SJ-1 was equal to 1.2 wt%. The API fluid loss of drilling fluid was still below 13 mL even at 220°C showing its property of temperature resistant. Three reasons account for this phenomenon. Firstly, the main chain of the polymeric molecule is connected by C–C, which is stable at high temperatures. Secondly, the–
SO
3
- of the AMPS has a strong temperature resistance performance, introducing the –
SO
3
- into the polymer molecule can significantly improve the property of temperature resistance. Lastly, APEG molecule contains a polyoxyethylene group, which can improve the hydrophilic property and the adsorption capacity of the SJ-1 at high temperatures.With the increase of temperature, the rheological property of drilling fluid which reflected on apparent viscosity, plastic viscosity, and yield value decreased. Some of the SJ-1 was degraded at high temperature, which can lead to breaking up the network structure to a certain extent. But this negative influence held within limits and control. The little change on the performance of the drilling fluid was less affected.


### 3.4. Evaluation of Salt Tolerance

#### 3.4.1. The Effect of NaCl at 120°C

1.2 wt% SJ-1 and different concentration of NaCl were added to the freshwater base mud and, then, aged 16 h at 120°C. The rheological and API fluid loss have been measured by rotational viscometer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Table3.Table 3
Performance evaluation of salt resistance of drilling fluid at high temperature.
Experimental conditions
NaCl concentration/wt%
AV/mPa·s
PV/mPa·s
YP/Pa
API filter loss/mL
Aging temperature 120°C, aging time 16 h
0.0
32.0
27.5
4.60
10.6
2.0
20.0
17.5
2.56
16.0
5.0
17.5
15.0
2.56
13.0
10.0
18.0
16.0
2.04
12.6
15.0
17.0
15.0
2.04
12.6
20.0
17.0
15.0
2.04
12.6
25.0
17.5
15.0
2.56
10.4
30.0
19.5
18.0
1.53
7.5Table3 illustrated that the API fluid loss of drilling fluid decreased gradually by the growing concentration of NaCl in the mud system. When the salt concentration was 30 wt%, the fluid loss achieved the lowest level, namely 7.5 mL, which indicated the good salt tolerance of SJ-1.Five reasons account for this phenomenon. Firstly, when the NaCl was added to the freshwater base mud, the value of the zeta electric potential of the clay particles would decrease and the hydration shell would be reduced, which would lead to generating the flocculated structure in the freshwater base mud. So, the API filter loss increases. Secondly, when the NaCl was added to the freshwater base mud, the adsorption of the fluid loss additive on the surface of the clay particles would increase, which would lead to the increase of the zeta electric potential of the clay particles and the thickening of hydration shell. So, the API filter loss would decrease. When the concentration of the NaCl was 2 wt%, the effect of the NaCl on the clay particles played a leading role, and the API filter loss was increased. Meanwhile, with the increase of the concentration of the NaCl, the effect of the NaCl on the fluid loss additive was increased and the API filter loss was decreased. When the concentration of the NaCl was 25 wt%, the effect of the NaCl on the fluid loss additive played a leading role, so the API filter loss was lower than that without the NaCl. Thirdly, the SJ-1 with good temperature resistant remains at a comparatively high level. And it is beneficial for adsorbing clay particles and free water to form aggregate, which forms a thin and dense mud cake on the wall. The appearance of mud cake effectively reduces the filtrate loss. Lastly, because of the adding of fluid loss additive SJ-1, the hydrophilic radical of this treating chemical mainly includes sulfonic acid and polyoxyethylene side chain which enjoy a favorable hydrophilicity and good solubility in a saline environment. It can bring enough hydrated film to clay and ensure the drilling fluid system has good salt tolerance.


#### 3.4.2. The Effect of CaCl2 at 120°C

1.2 wt% SJ-1 and different concentration of CaCl2 were added to the freshwater base mud and, then, aged 16 h at 120°C. The rheological and filtration properties have been measured by rotational viscometer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results have been shown in Table 4.Table 4
Performance evaluation of calcium resistance of drilling fluid under high temperature.
Experimental conditions
CaCl2 concentration/wt%
AV/mPa·s
PV/mPa·s
YP/Pa
API filter loss/mL
Aging temperature 120°C, aging time 16 h
0.0
32.0
27.5
4.60
10.6
2.0
9.5
9.0
0.51
26.0
4.0
10.0
9.0
1.02
19.0
6.0
9.0
8.0
1.02
17.0
8.0
8.5
8.0
0.51
12.6
10.0
8.5
8.0
0.51
12.0Table4 illustrated that the fluid loss of drilling fluid decreased gradually by the growing number of CaCl2 in the mud system. When the CaCl2 was 8 wt%, the fluid loss was lower than 12.6 mL, however the API fluid loss remain unchanged with the increase of CaCl2. When the CaCl2 was 10%, the API fluid loss was 12.0 mL.Two reasons account for this phenomenon. Firstly, the–
SO
3
- of the SJ-1 molecular chain has strong hydration capacity and the hydration of the clay particles can be thickened. Meanwhile, the –
SO
3
- and the calcium do not cause the precipitation reaction in the drilling fluid containing calcium ions. So the SJ-1 can form a thick hydration shell on the surface of clay, which can ensure that the SJ-1 has good fluid loss performance in the drilling fluid containing calcium ions. Secondly, because of the –
SO
3
-, the SJ-1 can resist a temperature of 120°C in which polymer rarely degrades or degrades in a small quantity; the original nature of many polymer molecules can be maintained, and they can adsorb clay particles and free water, forming an aggregate that acts as a thin and dense mud cake on the borehole wall, which effectively reduces the leakage of filtrate into formation.


### 3.5. Zeta Electric Potential Test

1.2 wt% SJ-1 was added to the freshwater base mud in different temperatures. The zeta electric potential and API filter loss have been measured by zeta potential analyzer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Figure2.Figure 2
The impact of zeta electric potential and API filter loss on mud system in different temperatures.Figure2 shows that, in different temperatures, both drilling fluid system and zeta electric potential have a big change. The absolute value of the zeta electric potential of the mud system gradually decreased with the increase of aging temperature, and the filter loss gradually increases with the increase of experimental temperatures. It means that with the increase of aging temperatures, the character of mud system changes a lot, in which the absorption capacity of polymers on the surface of clay particles is reducing, leading to the increase of filter loss of mud. However, because the SJ-1 contains many –
SO
3
- and side chain polyoxyethylene ether (
C
2
H
4
O
)
n which exhibits unique hydration and dispersion capacities at high temperature, the negative influence held within limits. The zeta electric potential test shows that this mud system still has a good dispersion stability in high temperature.1.2 wt% SJ-1 and different concentration of NaCl were added to the freshwater base mud at 25°C. The zeta electric potential and API filter loss have been measured by zeta potential analyzer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Figure3.Figure 3
The impact of zeta electric potential and API filter loss on mud system in different salt contents.Figure3 shows that, with an increase of NaCl, filter loss is decreasing, along with the absolute value of zeta electric potential rising up, which is compatible with the data of zeta electric potential test. With the increase of electrolyte, the coalescence of electrolyte is gradually gentle and the aggregation of clay particles in drilling fluid is impeded, resulting in the increase of the small particles in the mud with the expansion of the degree of mineralization. At the same time, SJ-1 particles are adsorbed on the surface of clay particles; sulfonic acid group can chemically react to Na+ and Ca2+ in salt; the steric effect of polyoxyethylene side chain in particles is large. Thus, it is more difficult to aggregate clay particles, and the compression of salt on the electric double layer is reduced, with the improvement of the resistance of fluid loss additive to salt. In addition, with the increase of polymer, both apparent and plastic viscosities are increasing to a small extent.


### 3.6. SEM Analysis of Filter Cake

In order to explore the microstructure of the filter cake formation and the filtration mechanism research, the formation of the filter cake was observed by type JSM7500F SEM.Freshwater base mud and polymers of 1.2 wt% density are added into drilling fluid to test the API filter loss in normal temperature. After drying, the appearance of filter cake can be seen through SEM in Figure4.SEM photos of (a) API filter cake formed by base mud and (b) API filter cake modified with SJ-1 (both of aging temperature 120°C).
(a)
(b)Figure4(a) shows that the surface of the base mud is uneven and friable, with some ravines and small poles. Some big particles can be seen, so the mud is bad in dispersion and the cake formed is of a poor quality, causing a terrible dehydration.Figure4(b) shows that after an aging process, the cakes are uniform and dense on their surfaces, with no big pores and coarse particles. Polymer adsorbed on clay particles, forming a reticulated polymer, which effectively blocks the pore of borehole wall and prevents the filtrate in the drilling fluid leaking to formation. Thus, the drilling fluid is presented to be in good character and the filtrate loss is less than base mud. Then, hydration swelling and dispersion of shale are decreasing, which can better avoid borehole wall collapsing to protect reservoir.Freshwater base mud polymers of 1.2% density are added into freshwater base mud, which is then stirred up speedily for 10 minutes. Next, NaCl is mixed into it and then stirred up for 10 minutes. API filtrate loss is tested and Figure5 shows the SEM images of the filter cake.SEM photos of (a) API filter cake formed by base mud + SJ-1 + 30 wt% NaCl and (b) API filter cake formed by base mud + SJ-1 + 30 wt% NaCl after the aging process of 30 min.
(a)
(b)Figure5(a) shows that the filter cakes, with NaCl of 30% density added into the mud system mixed with the fluid loss additive, are dense on their surfaces and distributed regularly in tight connection, narrowing the pores for less filtration loss. It means that filtration loss of drilling fluid can be effectively reduced by adding a large quantity of NaCl into drilling fluid system. The polyoxyethylene side chain in the fluid loss additive raises the resistance of polymers to salt, and its plastic-protection function impede the coalescence of NaCl to clay particles, contributing to the regular distribution of clay particles in the drilling fluid system. Thus, the cake formed is dense.Figure5(b) shows that the cakes, with NaCl of 30% density added into the mud system mixed with the fluid loss additive aging 30 min at 120°C, are dense and smooth on their surfaces and are distributed regularly in tight connection, narrowing the pores of filtrate loss.


## 3.1. Chemical Structure and Molecular Weight

The chemical structure of SJ-1 was analyzed by FTIR after being purified; the results were shown in Figure1.Figure 1
FTIR spectrum of polymerization product.A strong absorption peak of 3330.64 cm−1 was assigned to the stretching vibration of N–H. The absorption peaks observed at 2933.20 cm−1 and 2863.77 cm−1 were due to the stretching vibration of –CH3 and –CH2, respectively. The absorption peak of 1673.91 cm−1 was attributed to the stretching peak of C=O. The absorption peak of 1544.70 cm−1 was due to the stretching vibration of C–N, while 1201.43 cm−1 was attributed to C–O–C. Moreover, absorption peaks of 1112.72 cm−1 and 1041.37 cm−1 were according to the bending vibration of –
SO
3
-. Results mentioned above were consistent with the chemical structure of SJ-1 shown in Scheme 1.The molecular weight and its distribution of SJ-1 which was synthesized under the best optimum synthesis condition mentioned in Section2.2 were determined by GPC. The result showed that the weight average molecular weight was 8.1
×
10
5, and the number average molecular was 6.2
×
10
5. Thus, the molecular weight distribution coefficient is 1.29. These all meet the technical requirements for oilfield application [18].


## 3.2. Effect of Concentration of SJ-1 on the Properties of Drilling Fluid

Different concentration of SJ-1 was added to the freshwater base mud. The rheological and API fluid loss properties have been measured by rotational viscometer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Table1.Table 1
Relationship between SJ-1 concentration and fluid loss.
SJ-1 concentration/wt%
AV/mPa·s
PV/mPa·s
YP/Pa
API filter loss/mL
0.0
12.5
7.0
5.62
23.0
0.1
16.0
10.0
6.13
11.8
0.3
19.5
13.0
6.64
11.2
0.6
23.5
16.0
7.67
10.4
0.9
30.0
21.0
9.20
9.4
1.2
37.0
26.0
11.24
9.2
1.5
44.0
31.0
13.29
9.2
1.8
52.5
36.0
16.86
9.1According to Table1, with the increase of loading of SJ-1, the API fluid loss of drilling fluid decreased obviously. The values of fluid loss became stable, when the concentrations of SJ-1 was no less than 1.2 wt%. At the same time, the rheological property of drilling fluid changed as the increase of polymer concentration. SJ-1 contributes to build up the network structure, which results in a viscosity-building ability. If the rheological property of drilling fluid was bad, thinner might be required for the drilling fluid, so the optimum concentration of fluid loss addictive SJ-1 in the freshwater base mud was 1.2 wt%.


## 3.3. Evaluation of Temperature Resistance

1.2 wt% SJ-1 was added to the freshwater base mud, then, rolling in frequency conversion rolling oven for 16 h at different levels of temperature. The rheological and API fluid loss have been measured by rotational viscometer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Table2.Table 2
Fluid loss of drilling fluid changed with aging temperature.
Experimental conditions
AV/mPa·s
PV/mPa·s
YP/Pa
API filter loss/mL
120°C, 16 h
43.5
34.5
9.20
10.6
140°C, 16 h
38.5
32.0
6.64
10.6
160°C, 16 h
20.8
17.0
3.83
11.5
180°C, 16 h
13.0
9.5
3.58
12.1
200°C, 16 h
13.0
11.0
2.04
12.5
220°C, 16 h
12.5
11.0
1.53
13.0The value of API fluid loss of drilling fluid raised with the increase of temperature, when the concentration of SJ-1 was equal to 1.2 wt%. The API fluid loss of drilling fluid was still below 13 mL even at 220°C showing its property of temperature resistant. Three reasons account for this phenomenon. Firstly, the main chain of the polymeric molecule is connected by C–C, which is stable at high temperatures. Secondly, the–
SO
3
- of the AMPS has a strong temperature resistance performance, introducing the –
SO
3
- into the polymer molecule can significantly improve the property of temperature resistance. Lastly, APEG molecule contains a polyoxyethylene group, which can improve the hydrophilic property and the adsorption capacity of the SJ-1 at high temperatures.With the increase of temperature, the rheological property of drilling fluid which reflected on apparent viscosity, plastic viscosity, and yield value decreased. Some of the SJ-1 was degraded at high temperature, which can lead to breaking up the network structure to a certain extent. But this negative influence held within limits and control. The little change on the performance of the drilling fluid was less affected.


## 3.4. Evaluation of Salt Tolerance

### 3.4.1. The Effect of NaCl at 120°C

1.2 wt% SJ-1 and different concentration of NaCl were added to the freshwater base mud and, then, aged 16 h at 120°C. The rheological and API fluid loss have been measured by rotational viscometer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Table3.Table 3
Performance evaluation of salt resistance of drilling fluid at high temperature.
Experimental conditions
NaCl concentration/wt%
AV/mPa·s
PV/mPa·s
YP/Pa
API filter loss/mL
Aging temperature 120°C, aging time 16 h
0.0
32.0
27.5
4.60
10.6
2.0
20.0
17.5
2.56
16.0
5.0
17.5
15.0
2.56
13.0
10.0
18.0
16.0
2.04
12.6
15.0
17.0
15.0
2.04
12.6
20.0
17.0
15.0
2.04
12.6
25.0
17.5
15.0
2.56
10.4
30.0
19.5
18.0
1.53
7.5Table3 illustrated that the API fluid loss of drilling fluid decreased gradually by the growing concentration of NaCl in the mud system. When the salt concentration was 30 wt%, the fluid loss achieved the lowest level, namely 7.5 mL, which indicated the good salt tolerance of SJ-1.Five reasons account for this phenomenon. Firstly, when the NaCl was added to the freshwater base mud, the value of the zeta electric potential of the clay particles would decrease and the hydration shell would be reduced, which would lead to generating the flocculated structure in the freshwater base mud. So, the API filter loss increases. Secondly, when the NaCl was added to the freshwater base mud, the adsorption of the fluid loss additive on the surface of the clay particles would increase, which would lead to the increase of the zeta electric potential of the clay particles and the thickening of hydration shell. So, the API filter loss would decrease. When the concentration of the NaCl was 2 wt%, the effect of the NaCl on the clay particles played a leading role, and the API filter loss was increased. Meanwhile, with the increase of the concentration of the NaCl, the effect of the NaCl on the fluid loss additive was increased and the API filter loss was decreased. When the concentration of the NaCl was 25 wt%, the effect of the NaCl on the fluid loss additive played a leading role, so the API filter loss was lower than that without the NaCl. Thirdly, the SJ-1 with good temperature resistant remains at a comparatively high level. And it is beneficial for adsorbing clay particles and free water to form aggregate, which forms a thin and dense mud cake on the wall. The appearance of mud cake effectively reduces the filtrate loss. Lastly, because of the adding of fluid loss additive SJ-1, the hydrophilic radical of this treating chemical mainly includes sulfonic acid and polyoxyethylene side chain which enjoy a favorable hydrophilicity and good solubility in a saline environment. It can bring enough hydrated film to clay and ensure the drilling fluid system has good salt tolerance.


### 3.4.2. The Effect of CaCl2 at 120°C

1.2 wt% SJ-1 and different concentration of CaCl2 were added to the freshwater base mud and, then, aged 16 h at 120°C. The rheological and filtration properties have been measured by rotational viscometer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results have been shown in Table 4.Table 4
Performance evaluation of calcium resistance of drilling fluid under high temperature.
Experimental conditions
CaCl2 concentration/wt%
AV/mPa·s
PV/mPa·s
YP/Pa
API filter loss/mL
Aging temperature 120°C, aging time 16 h
0.0
32.0
27.5
4.60
10.6
2.0
9.5
9.0
0.51
26.0
4.0
10.0
9.0
1.02
19.0
6.0
9.0
8.0
1.02
17.0
8.0
8.5
8.0
0.51
12.6
10.0
8.5
8.0
0.51
12.0Table4 illustrated that the fluid loss of drilling fluid decreased gradually by the growing number of CaCl2 in the mud system. When the CaCl2 was 8 wt%, the fluid loss was lower than 12.6 mL, however the API fluid loss remain unchanged with the increase of CaCl2. When the CaCl2 was 10%, the API fluid loss was 12.0 mL.Two reasons account for this phenomenon. Firstly, the–
SO
3
- of the SJ-1 molecular chain has strong hydration capacity and the hydration of the clay particles can be thickened. Meanwhile, the –
SO
3
- and the calcium do not cause the precipitation reaction in the drilling fluid containing calcium ions. So the SJ-1 can form a thick hydration shell on the surface of clay, which can ensure that the SJ-1 has good fluid loss performance in the drilling fluid containing calcium ions. Secondly, because of the –
SO
3
-, the SJ-1 can resist a temperature of 120°C in which polymer rarely degrades or degrades in a small quantity; the original nature of many polymer molecules can be maintained, and they can adsorb clay particles and free water, forming an aggregate that acts as a thin and dense mud cake on the borehole wall, which effectively reduces the leakage of filtrate into formation.


## 3.4.1. The Effect of NaCl at 120°C

1.2 wt% SJ-1 and different concentration of NaCl were added to the freshwater base mud and, then, aged 16 h at 120°C. The rheological and API fluid loss have been measured by rotational viscometer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Table3.Table 3
Performance evaluation of salt resistance of drilling fluid at high temperature.
Experimental conditions
NaCl concentration/wt%
AV/mPa·s
PV/mPa·s
YP/Pa
API filter loss/mL
Aging temperature 120°C, aging time 16 h
0.0
32.0
27.5
4.60
10.6
2.0
20.0
17.5
2.56
16.0
5.0
17.5
15.0
2.56
13.0
10.0
18.0
16.0
2.04
12.6
15.0
17.0
15.0
2.04
12.6
20.0
17.0
15.0
2.04
12.6
25.0
17.5
15.0
2.56
10.4
30.0
19.5
18.0
1.53
7.5Table3 illustrated that the API fluid loss of drilling fluid decreased gradually by the growing concentration of NaCl in the mud system. When the salt concentration was 30 wt%, the fluid loss achieved the lowest level, namely 7.5 mL, which indicated the good salt tolerance of SJ-1.Five reasons account for this phenomenon. Firstly, when the NaCl was added to the freshwater base mud, the value of the zeta electric potential of the clay particles would decrease and the hydration shell would be reduced, which would lead to generating the flocculated structure in the freshwater base mud. So, the API filter loss increases. Secondly, when the NaCl was added to the freshwater base mud, the adsorption of the fluid loss additive on the surface of the clay particles would increase, which would lead to the increase of the zeta electric potential of the clay particles and the thickening of hydration shell. So, the API filter loss would decrease. When the concentration of the NaCl was 2 wt%, the effect of the NaCl on the clay particles played a leading role, and the API filter loss was increased. Meanwhile, with the increase of the concentration of the NaCl, the effect of the NaCl on the fluid loss additive was increased and the API filter loss was decreased. When the concentration of the NaCl was 25 wt%, the effect of the NaCl on the fluid loss additive played a leading role, so the API filter loss was lower than that without the NaCl. Thirdly, the SJ-1 with good temperature resistant remains at a comparatively high level. And it is beneficial for adsorbing clay particles and free water to form aggregate, which forms a thin and dense mud cake on the wall. The appearance of mud cake effectively reduces the filtrate loss. Lastly, because of the adding of fluid loss additive SJ-1, the hydrophilic radical of this treating chemical mainly includes sulfonic acid and polyoxyethylene side chain which enjoy a favorable hydrophilicity and good solubility in a saline environment. It can bring enough hydrated film to clay and ensure the drilling fluid system has good salt tolerance.


## 3.4.2. The Effect of CaCl2 at 120°C

1.2 wt% SJ-1 and different concentration of CaCl2 were added to the freshwater base mud and, then, aged 16 h at 120°C. The rheological and filtration properties have been measured by rotational viscometer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results have been shown in Table 4.Table 4
Performance evaluation of calcium resistance of drilling fluid under high temperature.
Experimental conditions
CaCl2 concentration/wt%
AV/mPa·s
PV/mPa·s
YP/Pa
API filter loss/mL
Aging temperature 120°C, aging time 16 h
0.0
32.0
27.5
4.60
10.6
2.0
9.5
9.0
0.51
26.0
4.0
10.0
9.0
1.02
19.0
6.0
9.0
8.0
1.02
17.0
8.0
8.5
8.0
0.51
12.6
10.0
8.5
8.0
0.51
12.0Table4 illustrated that the fluid loss of drilling fluid decreased gradually by the growing number of CaCl2 in the mud system. When the CaCl2 was 8 wt%, the fluid loss was lower than 12.6 mL, however the API fluid loss remain unchanged with the increase of CaCl2. When the CaCl2 was 10%, the API fluid loss was 12.0 mL.Two reasons account for this phenomenon. Firstly, the–
SO
3
- of the SJ-1 molecular chain has strong hydration capacity and the hydration of the clay particles can be thickened. Meanwhile, the –
SO
3
- and the calcium do not cause the precipitation reaction in the drilling fluid containing calcium ions. So the SJ-1 can form a thick hydration shell on the surface of clay, which can ensure that the SJ-1 has good fluid loss performance in the drilling fluid containing calcium ions. Secondly, because of the –
SO
3
-, the SJ-1 can resist a temperature of 120°C in which polymer rarely degrades or degrades in a small quantity; the original nature of many polymer molecules can be maintained, and they can adsorb clay particles and free water, forming an aggregate that acts as a thin and dense mud cake on the borehole wall, which effectively reduces the leakage of filtrate into formation.


## 3.5. Zeta Electric Potential Test

1.2 wt% SJ-1 was added to the freshwater base mud in different temperatures. The zeta electric potential and API filter loss have been measured by zeta potential analyzer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Figure2.Figure 2
The impact of zeta electric potential and API filter loss on mud system in different temperatures.Figure2 shows that, in different temperatures, both drilling fluid system and zeta electric potential have a big change. The absolute value of the zeta electric potential of the mud system gradually decreased with the increase of aging temperature, and the filter loss gradually increases with the increase of experimental temperatures. It means that with the increase of aging temperatures, the character of mud system changes a lot, in which the absorption capacity of polymers on the surface of clay particles is reducing, leading to the increase of filter loss of mud. However, because the SJ-1 contains many –
SO
3
- and side chain polyoxyethylene ether (
C
2
H
4
O
)
n which exhibits unique hydration and dispersion capacities at high temperature, the negative influence held within limits. The zeta electric potential test shows that this mud system still has a good dispersion stability in high temperature.1.2 wt% SJ-1 and different concentration of NaCl were added to the freshwater base mud at 25°C. The zeta electric potential and API filter loss have been measured by zeta potential analyzer and medium-pressure filtration apparatus, respectively. The results were shown in Figure3.Figure 3
The impact of zeta electric potential and API filter loss on mud system in different salt contents.Figure3 shows that, with an increase of NaCl, filter loss is decreasing, along with the absolute value of zeta electric potential rising up, which is compatible with the data of zeta electric potential test. With the increase of electrolyte, the coalescence of electrolyte is gradually gentle and the aggregation of clay particles in drilling fluid is impeded, resulting in the increase of the small particles in the mud with the expansion of the degree of mineralization. At the same time, SJ-1 particles are adsorbed on the surface of clay particles; sulfonic acid group can chemically react to Na+ and Ca2+ in salt; the steric effect of polyoxyethylene side chain in particles is large. Thus, it is more difficult to aggregate clay particles, and the compression of salt on the electric double layer is reduced, with the improvement of the resistance of fluid loss additive to salt. In addition, with the increase of polymer, both apparent and plastic viscosities are increasing to a small extent.


## 3.6. SEM Analysis of Filter Cake

In order to explore the microstructure of the filter cake formation and the filtration mechanism research, the formation of the filter cake was observed by type JSM7500F SEM.Freshwater base mud and polymers of 1.2 wt% density are added into drilling fluid to test the API filter loss in normal temperature. After drying, the appearance of filter cake can be seen through SEM in Figure4.SEM photos of (a) API filter cake formed by base mud and (b) API filter cake modified with SJ-1 (both of aging temperature 120°C).
(a)
(b)Figure4(a) shows that the surface of the base mud is uneven and friable, with some ravines and small poles. Some big particles can be seen, so the mud is bad in dispersion and the cake formed is of a poor quality, causing a terrible dehydration.Figure4(b) shows that after an aging process, the cakes are uniform and dense on their surfaces, with no big pores and coarse particles. Polymer adsorbed on clay particles, forming a reticulated polymer, which effectively blocks the pore of borehole wall and prevents the filtrate in the drilling fluid leaking to formation. Thus, the drilling fluid is presented to be in good character and the filtrate loss is less than base mud. Then, hydration swelling and dispersion of shale are decreasing, which can better avoid borehole wall collapsing to protect reservoir.Freshwater base mud polymers of 1.2% density are added into freshwater base mud, which is then stirred up speedily for 10 minutes. Next, NaCl is mixed into it and then stirred up for 10 minutes. API filtrate loss is tested and Figure5 shows the SEM images of the filter cake.SEM photos of (a) API filter cake formed by base mud + SJ-1 + 30 wt% NaCl and (b) API filter cake formed by base mud + SJ-1 + 30 wt% NaCl after the aging process of 30 min.
(a)
(b)Figure5(a) shows that the filter cakes, with NaCl of 30% density added into the mud system mixed with the fluid loss additive, are dense on their surfaces and distributed regularly in tight connection, narrowing the pores for less filtration loss. It means that filtration loss of drilling fluid can be effectively reduced by adding a large quantity of NaCl into drilling fluid system. The polyoxyethylene side chain in the fluid loss additive raises the resistance of polymers to salt, and its plastic-protection function impede the coalescence of NaCl to clay particles, contributing to the regular distribution of clay particles in the drilling fluid system. Thus, the cake formed is dense.Figure5(b) shows that the cakes, with NaCl of 30% density added into the mud system mixed with the fluid loss additive aging 30 min at 120°C, are dense and smooth on their surfaces and are distributed regularly in tight connection, narrowing the pores of filtrate loss.


## 4. Conclusions

With FTIR analysis, the composition of the synthetic polymer SJ-1 was consistent to the designed structure. The weight average molecular weight of SJ-1 was8.1
×
10
5, and its number average molecular was 6.2
×
10
5. The molecular weight distribution coefficient was 1.29. The character evaluation proves that the best amount of SJ-1 in the mud is 1.2%, and the API filtrate loss is 9.2 mL. Salt resistance of SJ-1 is effective and keeps its effectiveness in the drilling fluid system in which the aging temperature is 220°C, the mass density of NaCl is 30 wt%, and CaCl2 is 10 wt%. The zeta electric potential test on clay particles proves that with an increase of SJ-1, the API filtrate loss in drilling fluid is decreasing and the absolute value of zeta electric potential is increasing. Hydrated membrane is thickened by the increase of the density of negative charge of clay particles, contributing to the reduction of filtrate loss of drilling fluid. In addition, the SEM analysis proves that cakes with SJ-1 added in are even and dense on their surfaces with no big pores or coarse particles, and the filtrate loss is less than base mud. Besides, those cakes can effectively resist the pollution of electrolytes. And in the mud system with NaCl of 30% density, the cakes formed are distributed regularly in tight connection, narrowing the filtrate loss pores and reducing the amount of filtrate loss.



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*Source: 201301-2014-08-18.xml*