Shale Swelling Inhibitor Utilizing Taro Root, Alginate, and Activated Carbon from Waste Material

Abstract This research explores eco-friendly methods to prevent shale swelling while drilling. It evaluates the effectiveness of using alginate, taro root, and activated carbon from waste materials as additives to drilling fluids in Pakistan's shale formations. This study optimizes the inhibition of a chosen drilling fluid through various experiments, including immersion tests, determination of contact angles, rheological properties, HPHT (high pressure and high temperature) filtration loss. Equipment such as a mortar grinder, sieve shaker, pH meter, heating oven, hydraulic compactor, and ImageJ software were used for analysis. Taro root, activated carbon, and alginate showed promise as additives for enhancing water-based drilling fluids. Optimal particle size and mass fraction solutions of taro root reduce shale collapse and filtration-induced mud loss. Activated carbon purifies water, lowering impurity levels and stabilizing drilling by mitigating clay swelling. Alginate improves mud rheological properties. Both alginate and taro root reduce fluid loss and friction, providing a thin filter cake and lubricity. These additives offer a green, environmentally friendly alternative for inhibiting clay swelling. This innovative approach utilizes waste material for swelling inhibitor in drilling fluids. It contributes to the existing literature by demonstrating its inhibitory properties, improving drilling mud characteristics, and offering an environmentally friendly alternative for clay swelling inhibition. These insights support the petroleum industry's pursuit of sustainable and eco-friendly drilling practices.