Feasibility study of kenaf as fluid loss additive in water-based mud

Fluid loss is one of the problems encountered when drilling oil and gas wells. It may occur at any depth when the hydrostatic pressure exerted the formation exceeds the formation pressure at porous and permeable zones. Reducing the fluid loss is essential in drilling operation in order to maintain the mud properties. Mud added fluid loss additives will also trigger the changes in other mud properties. The objective of this research is to study the potential of kenaf as fluid loss additive as an alternative to commercial additives available in the market. Kenaf is a fibrous material which derived from plant and environmentally friendly. Laboratory studies were conducted to compare the rheological performance of mud at different concentrations and conditions. The results revealed that the commercial additive (PAC) performed better than kenaf as fluid loss additive. However, better results were achieved when both kenaf and PAC were mixed together at certain proportions. The results of API filtration test showed that the minimum fluid loss achieved was 7 ml. However, HPHT filtration test recorded a very small amount fluid loss. (paper)