Sulphonated asphalt (also spelled sulfonated asphalt) is one of the most popular compounds manufactured from sodium asphalt sulphonate for use as a Shale Stabilizer and Shale Conditioner in the Oil & Gas Industry.
In addition to shale stabilization, this versatile “mud” conditioner that was engineered to work well with all water-based and oil-based mud systems, also affords the following important benefits to well operators:
- It controls HTHP (high temperature, high pressure) fluid loss
- It’s not biodegradable
- It’s highly temperature stable
- It stabilizes the hole formation
- It contributes to the stability of the drilling fluids
- It’s 80-90% soluble in water. The insoluble portion remains in the drilling mud and “plasters” the formation surface providing improved filter cake properties.
- It improves lubricity and therefore reduces torque and drag
- It contributes to the stability of the drilling fluids
- It aids in the emulsification of oil
- It improves the performance of the drilling mud by controlling its chemical and physical properties
- It inhibits the disintegration and dispersion of solid drilled cuttings
- It controls high temperature water loss which prevents further formation/shale hydration and sloughing.
- It is highly effective in dispersed and non-dispersed polymer, PHPA and other systems.
- It controls viscosity
- It helps seal micro fractures
- It prevents drill bit and down hole assembly bailing
- It inhibits corrosion
- It enhances well productivity
Application: For shale control, fluid loss improving, Torque and Drag Reduction ,Inhibition of Swelling clays of all water mud’s.
COMMON NAME – Sulphonated Asphalt/ Shale Stabilizer /HTHP Fluid Loss Controller
Usage: it is a Free flowing Powder and can be added Directly to the Mud System through the Mixing Hopper with a good Agitation system . Typical concentration range from 3-7 lb/bbl (8.55 Kg/m3 -20 Kg/m3) for shale Stabilization .Dosage may be Increased to 10 lb/bbl if required .
Packaging: Material is packed in 25kg or 50 Lbs (22.68 Kg) sacks.
Safety and Handling: Material must be handled as an Industrial chemical, wearing protective equipment and observing the precautions as mentioned in the MSDS.
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