Intensification of oil production through the use of hydraulic fracturing fluid based on polyacrylamide

Abstract

The article considers the technology of Hydraulic Fracturing (HF) based on polyacrylamide (Co-PAM), identifies parameters for evaluating the quality of the fluid both on a guar and polyacrylamide base. Fluid viscosity is a main criteria of success of HF operations. Thus, fluid thermal stability, determine the pumping time. The composition of the Co-PAM-based HF fluid differs from the guar-based one, consisting of two main chemical reagents - a gelling agent and a crosslinker(x-linker), in that only a synthetic gelling agent is used. Recommended concentration starts from 4 l/m3. At this concentration the synthetic gel starts to exhibit properties of a sand-carrying fluid, suitable for standard pump rate (4.0-5.0 m3/min) HF. A significant advantage is compliance with the requirements for HF fluids which not only improves the filtration properties of the formation but also considers the economic feasibility of using such a chemical reagent. Co-PAM gel using provides reduction of logistics costs, water heating. Also it allows to exclude hydration unit, reduced crew, decreased wear on pumping units, including reduced consumption of lubricants during the HF operation.