Utilization of Sugarcane Bagasse Ash as Filtration Loss Control Agent in Water Based Drilling Muds

Abstract

The objective of this work is to experimental assessment of the suitability of sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) as a filtration loss agent in water based drilling mud formulation. The drilling mud was mixed with concentration of various SCBA at 1, 3 and 5% weight by weight, and is conducted at temperatures at 25, 50 and 80°C according to API RP13B-1 standard. The chemical properties are determined by using X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscope. The major oxide observed in SCBA is SiO2 (88.379%). Meanwhile, the major minerals of SCBA with predominance of quartz (73.123%) and shows the amorphous silica formation. The particle shape of SCBA has an irregular shape with rough surfaces and small porous textures. The drilling mud mixed with 1% w/w of SCBA exhibited the best filtration control characteristics with minimal filtrate volume and thinner and consistent mud filter cakes. Physical examination of the filtrate volume indicates that filtrate volume and filter cake thickness increases by a percentage of SCBA and temperature increasing. Thus, SCBA has proved to possess good filtration (fluid) loss control properties.