Leveraging a novel nanocomposite for enhanced drilling fluid efficiency

Abstract The efficient formulation of drilling fluids is critical for maintaining stability and performance in demanding wellbore environments. In this study, a novel nanocomposite material (TiO2/Saponin/Zr) was synthesized and introduced into drilling fluid formulations to enhance rheological behav...

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Main Authors: Yaqin Tian, Farag M. A. Altalbawy, Nikunj Rachchh, T. Ramachandran, Aman Shankhyan, A. Karthikeyan, Dhirendra Nath Thatoi, Deepak Gupta, Muyassar Norberdiyeva, Mohammad R. K. M. Al-Badkubi, Mehrdad Mottaghi
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Nature Portfolio 2025-08-01
Series:Scientific Reports
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-13087-z
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Summary:Abstract The efficient formulation of drilling fluids is critical for maintaining stability and performance in demanding wellbore environments. In this study, a novel nanocomposite material (TiO2/Saponin/Zr) was synthesized and introduced into drilling fluid formulations to enhance rheological behavior, filtration control, and thermal stability. The synthesis involved sol-gel methods, FTIR, TGA, and SEM analyses, confirming the material’s successful functionalization and nanoscale structure. Rheological measurements demonstrated significant improvements in viscosity and shear stress with nanoparticle concentrations up to 500 ppm, where the optimal performance was achieved. Filtration tests revealed reductions in fluid loss by up to 50%, ensuring better wellbore stability. Statistical modeling with the Bingham Plastic and Herschel-Bulkley approaches revealed superior predictability for these nanocomposite-enhanced fluids. Overall, this innovative nanocomposite provides a promising avenue for addressing challenges in modern drilling operations, offering technical and operational benefits.
ISSN:2045-2322