In-Situ PS/PMMA-2D Composites Microbeads as Potential Hydraulic Fracturing Proppants

Abstract In this report, we present copolymer composite microbeads (100/120 mesh) designed as in-situ high-strength proppants incorporating copolymer-2D nanofillers for effective hydraulic fracturing operations. The poly(styrene/methyl methacrylate)-2D nanofiller (PS/PMMA-2D nanofiller) composite microbeads were synthesized through an emulsion polymerization technique. Various 2D nanofillers, including commercial graphene (CG), hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets (h-BN), and a combination of CG and h-BN (CG:BN), were utilized in the preparation of these copolymer composite microbeads. The microbeads were thoroughly characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyze their morphology. Fourier-Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods were also employed to confirm the development of the composites. FT-IR, XRD, and SEM findings indicated successful composite formation. Remarkably, the copolymer composite microbeads demonstrated crush resistance of up to 12,000 psi, suggesting their potential as effective candidates for hydraulic fracturing applications.