Other

Shell Western E&p Inc.

Robert R Wood

Zaida Diaz

The invention relates to the use of pre-engineered pills for use with drilling mud. By introducing pills of ground elastomer into the well, the pills can improve the lubricity of the mud as well as aiding in wellbore cleaning, prevention of bit balling and reduction of fluid loss to thief zones.

Pre-engineered pills for the improvement of drilling muds

The invention is a novel drilling fluid additive comprising particles of elastomer which are capable of swelling upon contact with a hydrocarbon fluid. The swelling of the elastomer is gradual, allowing the elastomer to reach the lost circulation zone before significant swelling occurs. Once in the lost circulation zone, the polymer expands sealing off the lost circulation zone. A method for preventing drilling fluid loss is also provided.

Drilling fluids

In producing CO.sub.2 from subterranean reservoirs at conditions apt to cause both aqueous and CO.sub.2 -rich liquid phases to flow in pipes conveying the fluid, the formation of hydrates is prevented by adding a specified type of inorganic electrolyte hydrate inhibitor in proportions capable of maintaining an effective concentration within the aqueous liquid phase.

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Houston, TX, United States of America

Robert R Wood