Methods of using a polymeric precipitate to reduce the loss of fluid to a subterranean formation

Abstract

Methods are provided for reducing the loss of a wellbore servicing fluid to a subterranean formation. A polymeric solution and an activator may be contacted in the formation, thereby forming a precipitate to at least partially block fluid from flowing further into the formation. The fluid may be, for example, a drilling fluid, a cement composition, a workover fluid, or combinations thereof. The polymeric solution may comprise a polyvinylpyrrolidone aqueous solution, and the activator may comprise a formate brine. In one embodiment, the polymeric solution and the activator are contacted before completing a drilling operation in the wellbore. In another embodiment, they are contacted before completing a primary cementing operation in the wellbore. In yet another embodiment, they are contacted before completing a secondary cementing operation in the wellbore. When desirable, the precipitate may be easily and quickly removed from the subterranean formation by dissolving it in fresh water.