Use of nanomaterials in fluids, proppants, and downhole tools for hydraulic fracturing of unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs

摘要

The present report illustrates the results of a literature and Internet search aimed to collect and review information on the use of nanotechnology in fluids, proppants, and downhole tools for hydraulic fracturing of unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs.Different sources were consulted to cover both potential nanotechnology applications, as proposed in peer reviewed scientific literature and patents, and commercially available applications, which are already used in products and advertised on company websites. In summary, 25 different types of nanotechnology applications have been identified and a large variety of different nanomaterials has been encountered, ranging from inorganic and organic nanoparticles to more complex core-shells and nanocomposites. Most of the nanomaterials used in applications for hydraulic fracturing are of inorganic nature. About half of the application types are specific for unconventional reservoirs including tight and ultra-tight gas, shale gas, and coal-bed methane. Although more than two thirds of the application types are still at the research and development stage, 31 commercial products claiming to use nanotechnology have been identified. Only few of them are available in the European market, according to producers' claims.The consulted sources consider the use of nanotechnology in fluids, proppants, and downhole tools for hydraulic fracturing of unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs as successful. No disadvantage or additional cost from application of nanomaterials in hydraulic fracturing is mentioned.