CO2 Foamed Viscoelastic Gel-Based Seawater Fracturing Fluid for High-Temperature Wells
Author Information
Author(s): Al-Darweesh Jawad, Aljawad Murtada Saleh, Kamal Muhammad Shahzad, Mahmoud Mohamed, Alajmei Shabeeb, Karadkar Prasad B., Harbi Bader G.
Primary Institution: King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals
Hypothesis
This study investigates the development of a novel CO2-foamed viscoelastic gel-based fracturing fluid to address the challenges of high-temperature formations.
Conclusion
The study found that viscoelastic surfactants can achieve a peak foam viscosity of 0.183 Pa·s at high temperatures, which is crucial for effective proppant transport in hydraulic fracturing.
Supporting Evidence
- Viscoelastic surfactants achieved a peak foam viscosity of 0.183 Pa·s at a shear rate of 100 1/s and a 70% foam quality.
- At lower foam qualities (≤50%), pressure had a negligible effect on foam viscosity.
- The addition of polymers did not improve foam viscosity.
- Maintaining the thermal stability of CO2 foams with minimal additives remains a significant challenge.
Takeaway
This research shows how a special foam made from CO2 can help in drilling deep wells by being thick and stable, even when it's really hot.
Methodology
Rheological experiments were conducted using a high-pressure/high-temperature rheometer at 150 °C and pressures ranging from 6.89 to 20.68 MPa.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on laboratory conditions, which may not fully replicate field conditions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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