An Experimental Study on Particle Sizing of Natural Substitutes for Drilling Fluid Applications (original) (raw)

Particle-size distribution (PSD) is an important tool to evaluate the potential use of samples and influences how well these aggregates function in an engineering project. Sieve analysis is a technique to determine the PSD by shaking the material through a nest of sieves and weighing the residue left on each sieve and the pan. Appropriate amount of fine particles in a drilling fluid indicates a firm filter cake which retards invasion of the drilling fluid into the formation and helps in maintaining the borehole stability. This study proposes three naturally available elements (which are date seeds, grass ash and powdered grass) as possible ingredients in the drilling mud. The technique is based on the sample’s particle size distribution to develop a sustainable drilling fluid which is environmentally friendly and cost effective. A comparison is made between the three proposed additives to select the finest amongst them. Results show that all three samples contained fine particles. However, the grass ash sample has the highest weight percent of fine particles followed by powdered grass and date seeds. This substantiates the author’s choice to use these three proposed natural elements as additives in the drilling fluid.