Comparative Study of Mud Properties of Local and Foreign Bentonite: A Case Study of Usen Clay, Edo State, Nigeria

Authors: Christopher EF, Ohenhen I

DOI Info: N/A

ABSTRACT

This study evaluates the performance of a local mud (clay from Usen town, Edo State, Nigeria) sample for drilling operations in Nigeria. The primary objective was to investigate the mud’s properties in order to ascertain its substitutability for foreign Bentonite. API RP-13B standard procedures were employed throughout the laboratory work to determine mud properties. From the results, the sand content, the yield point/plastic viscosity (Yp/PV) ratio of the clay met API standard. However, the mud needed treatment with additives in order for the mud weight, viscosity, gel strength and pH value to meet API standard. Foreign additives used for beneficiation were Q-broxine and hydroxyl ethyl cellulose. The mud weight and gel strength of the local mud met API standard when beneficiated with 5g Q-broxine and 10g hydroxyl ethyl cellulose. Local mud pH values increased when treated with 5g Q-broxine and the modification raised the mud pH to be within the API standard of 9.5 to 12.5. The viscosity of the local mud was below standard requirement of 30cp, but increased to within API standard when beneficiated with 10g hydroxyl ethyl cellulose.

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