The influence of activation methodologies on the rheological and filtration characteristics of Cyprus smectites for potential use as low density solids in drilling fluids. A case study of Polycanthos quarry

Youstina Ramsis, Ernestos Sarris, Loizos Papaloizou, Elias Gravanis, Demetris Vattis

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

In this work, we investigate the suitability of Cyprus bentonite as low-density solid additive for drilling fluids. Bentonite samples were obtained from a quarry owned by Hellenic mining company Ltd. Samples were mechanically processed to a size <63μm. The processed material was activated with Na2CO3 using (i) dry, (ii) wet, and (iii) thermal conditions. The samples were activated with different percentages of soda ash and for different curing times prior to experimentation with the aim to investigate optimum soda ash quantity and activation time. With thermal activation we increase the cation exchange reaction for faster activation results. Standard tests for the rheological behavior and filtration properties of the clay suspensions were performed. Results indicate that the quality of clay suspensions, which are rich in non-clay minerals (impure), improve to a certain point after the treatments are applied. Even though the rheological and filtration characteristics improve, there is room for improvement with respect to reaching the desired API standards. The reason for the low-quality results appears to be the impurities that are inherent in the material and the K+ cations that act as swelling inhibitors. Future improvements could be the use of purification methods or chemically process the activation methods with intermediate cation exchange before full sodium activation.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication57th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium
PublisherAmerican Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA)
ISBN (Electronic)9780979497582
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023
Event57th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium - Atlanta, United States
Duration: 25 Jun 202328 Jun 2023

Publication series

Name57th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium

Conference

Conference57th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAtlanta
Period25/06/2328/06/23

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