Title: A Study of the Beneficiation Potential of Cow Bone and Coconut Husk (Cocos nucifera) as Additives on Local Clay for Mud Quality Improvement
Authors: Owe O. Abigail, Mfon I. Otite-Doughlas
Volume: 9
Issue: 3
Pages: 32-40
Publication Date: 2025/03/28
Abstract:
Activities involving oil and gas exploration as well as production exist virtually every part of the globe where hydrocarbon deposits are deemed to occur. In order to produce these hydrocarbons, the industry relies on a number of oilfield chemical formulations; one of such chemical formulations is the drilling fluid. The dependency on foreign materials in drilling mud formulation poses environmental, supply chain disruptions and sustainability challenges. This study explores the beneficiation of local clay using cow bone and coconut shell as additives to enhance its properties for use in drilling mud. The approach involves blending local clay and foreign bentonite to reduce importation and dependency on foreign material while maintaining or improving the required rheological and filtration properties. Laboratory experiments assess the impact of these additives on key drilling mud parameters such as rheological properties, viscosity, pH, fluid loss control, filtration control. The obtained data showed that the beneficiated mud samples, (Sample B, C, and D) did not meet the API standard specifications in terms of rheological and filtration properties with sediments seen. While the samples, (Sample A and D) both fell within the API standard specifications with sediments seen been negligible, making them suitable for drilling mud operations. A notable recommendation to this study would be to try more blended ratios and possibilities of using foreign and other locally sourced additives.