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Experiential investigations for shale–fluid interaction and identification of novel chemical additives as efficient shale swelling inhibitor

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Abstract

The shale instability is a great challenge for both conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon exploitation. Although numerous chemical inhibitor additives have been used to reduce shale swelling, the efficacy of each additive may vary in field conditions due to the heterogeneous nature of the shales, in terms of mineralogy, chemistry, microstructure, etc. Therefore, a special study for in-field inhibitor implementation is essential. The traditional additives including potassium chloride, polyamine, partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide, and formulated novel chemical swelling inhibitors were used to carry out extensive laboratory investigations on shale inhibition. The formulated polyamine and xantham gum-based inhibiors acted as the most effective inhibitor to control the swelling up to 40%. The X-ray diffraction studies reveal the shale types, microstructures, chemistry, and their control on inhibition behavior. The montmorillonite-rich shales are significantly hydratable and expansive, while organic matter shows a negative correlation with shale swelling.

Graphical abstract

Highlights

  • The roles of different chemical inhibitors are investigated for different types of shales.

  • Microcomputer tomography and linear swelling meter are used to understand the internal shale microstructure and shale-inhibitor interactions.

  • Formulated efficient inhibition for reducing shale swelling mechanism to improve shale stability.

Discussion

The use of chemical additives in shale drilling fluids raises concerns about the environmental impact of extraction processes, emphasizing the need for sustainable alternatives and eco-friendly practices in the energy industry. The identification of novel chemical additives prompts discussions on the role of governmental policies and regulations in ensuring the responsible use of these substances, addressing potential environmental and health risks associated with shale exploration and drilling. Controversies may arise regarding the economic feasibility and long-term sustainability of adopting new shale swelling inhibitors, requiring a delicate balance between economic interests, technological advancements, and environmental responsibility within the energy sector.

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Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank University of Petroleum and Energy Studies Dehradun, India for providing permission to pursue the research work. IIT Kharagpur is acknowledged for providing support. We are grateful to Institute of drilling technology IDT ONGC Dehradun for providing permission to use LSM facilities.

Funding

No funding was received from any agency/institute to carry out the work.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, Kharagpur, W. B., India

    Annapurna Boruah & Basanta Kumar Prusty

  2. University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun, 248007, India

    Annapurna Boruah

  3. University of Texas Permian Basin, Odessa, USA

    Sumit Verma

Authors
  1. Annapurna Boruah
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  2. Basanta Kumar Prusty
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  3. Sumit Verma
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Contributions

The work is post-doctoral research work of Dr. Annapurna Boruah, under the supervision of Dr. B. K. Prusty. The first author carried out the field study, sample collection, and laboratory analysis. The second author guided the study and drafted the manuscript. The third author drafted the manuscript.

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Correspondence to Annapurna Boruah.

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This article was updated to correct Basanta Kumar Prusty's affiliation from University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun 248007, India to Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, Kharagpur, W. B., India in the PDF version of the article. The error in affiliation was introduced during the production process.

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Boruah, A., Prusty, B.K. & Verma, S. Experiential investigations for shale–fluid interaction and identification of novel chemical additives as efficient shale swelling inhibitor. MRS Energy & Sustainability (2024). https://doi.org/10.1557/s43581-024-00085-3

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