A Disintegrable Metal Matrix Composite

摘要

Disintegrable metal matrix composite(DMMC)is a newly developed material that is high strength, lightweight, and disintegrates in wellbore fluid at a predictable and controllable rate. The material is manufactured through a powder metallurgy process by consolidating reactive metal powders that were coated with metallic and/or ceramic reinforcements. Material composition and microstructure can be engineered at the nanoscale, to vary material strength and disintegration rate. This paper presents the material design criteria, unique microstructure and properties of the materials, and field application cases. DMMC is an ideal material for downhole tools that require eventual removal. Self-disintegration of DMMC tools after the tools perform their functions completely eliminates intervention operations required for tool removal, thus saving operational time and cost. The new disintegrable composites have been used in multiple-zone hydraulic fracturing tools and other oilfield applications, and have proven their use as cost savers and well-productivity enhancers.