Effects of Environmentally Friendly Drilling Fluids on Hydrating Cement

摘要

This paper presents the results of a study that incorporated field applications and laboratory experimentation to evaluate the effects of new drilling fluids on hydrating cement. Environmental concerns led to a ban on the discharge, into surrounding waters, of drill cuttings when drilling with diesel- or mineral oil-based fluids. Drilling fluids based on isomerized olefins were developed as an alternative. In this study, isomerized olefins were used. A critical parameter of success in oilfield cementing is the compatibility of drilling fluid with a cement slurry. If the two fluids are not compatible, or if the drilling fluid cannot be completely removed from the wellbore before the introduction of the cement, a costly remedial cement job will usually follow. This investigation, a cooperative effort pairing the knowledge and expertise of Chevron Petroleum Technology Company and Halliburton Energy Services, Inc., centered on the exchange of ions across the interface between the drilling fluid and the cement. The particular isomerized olefin used in the study performed in a superior manner and exhibited little tendency to cause contamination of the cement sheath.