Evaluation of the Efficiency of Polymers, Polymeric Nanoparticles and Surfactants Additives in Improving the Rheology and Loss Control of Drilling Fluids: A Review

The success of drilling hydrocarbon reservoirs is inextricably linked to the efficiency of the drilling fluid. Polymers and nanopolymers as effective additives have great potential to improve the properties of drilling fluids. However, the role of polymeric materials in this field is in its beginnings and had significant progress in recent years. The present study reviews the drilling fluids improved and modified by various polymers and nanopolymers. Also, the effects of new polymers, seawater-based and environmentally friendly polymer systems, cationic and anionic polymer systems, the role of surfactants and nanopolymers in improving the properties of drilling fluids are described and their technical and economic advantages are studied. This research reviews recent advances in the synthesis and applications of polymers and nanopolymers in drilling fluid systems while discussing the role of polymers in modifying rheological properties and controlling drilling fluid loss, mud cake thickness, filtration properties, and thermal stability. The most important findings of this review show that environmentally friendly polymer systems reduce costs by up to 30% and reduce the transport and disposal of drilling fluid waste. The use of cationic and anionic polymer systems neutralizes the rock charge and reduces its electrostatic interaction with water, which prevents water from penetrating the clay and can, like PHPA polymer, reduce the drilling problems of clay layers. As a biopolymer, terminalia mantaly (TM gum) and CMC are desirable additives to increase viscosity. Also, the ability to withstand high pressure and sealing of drilling fluids based on nanopolymers prevents pressure transfer and minimizes the interaction of fluids between the drilling bit and the formation, thus improving the stability of the oil and gas wells.