Advantages of Using Graphene Dispersions in Drilling and Fracturing Fluids to Enhance Proppant Performance and Increase Well Productivity
1. Ultra-Low Friction and Lubrication (Nanoscale Lubrication)
Few-layer graphene in water- or oil-based systems forms a two-dimensional film that significantly reduces friction within rock pores.📣 Comparable to molybdenum or disulfide-based lubricants, but with superior chemical stability in aggressive environments.
- Enhances proppant transport through fractures → allowing deeper penetration and more uniform distribution.
- This is crucial for heterogeneous, fractured, or „depleted“ reservoirs where standard proppants tend to clog.
2. Formation of Conductive Channels
Graphene dispersions can create electrically conductive bridges between proppants and fracture walls.
- Especially valuable when combined with electromagnetic stimulation of the reservoir → enhancing ionization effects and localized cavitation.
- Imparts antistatic properties, reducing the adhesion of fine particles to the proppant surface.
3. Protection and Stabilization of Proppant Structures
Graphene encapsulates proppant particles with a nanofilm that resists thermal and acidic degradation.
- Particularly relevant in high-temperature or saline-rich formations such as tight shales or carbonates.
- Improves proppant durability and mechanical resilience.
4. Rheological Optimization of Drilling and Fracturing Fluids
Few-layer graphene dispersions modulate:
- Viscosity
- Thixotropy
- Stability under pressure and temperature Graphene can retain moisture and act as a stabilizer for gel phases at elevated temperatures.
- Crucial for multi-stage hydraulic fracturing, where fluid consistency over time is essential.
5. Enhanced Recovery of Residual Oil and Gas
By interacting with pore structures, graphene reduces capillary pressure, enabling:
- More effective drainage
- Lower wettability
- Expulsion of residual hydrocarbon phases This improves output even from mature wells previously deemed uneconomical.
6. Anti-Corrosion and Antibacterial Properties
Graphene in fracturing fluids can inhibit the growth of sulfate-reducing bacteria (a major source of microbiologically influenced corrosion in wells).
- Also offers protection for metal components in casing and pumping systems.
Conclusion (for presentation, reports, or commercial proposals):
The integration of water- and oil-based graphene dispersions into drilling and fracturing fluids significantly enhances hydraulic fracturing efficiency through friction reduction, proppant stabilization, improved filtration, and residual hydrocarbon extraction. The unique surface area and chemical functionality of graphene promote uniform distribution and deep penetration into porous rock structures, paving the way for increased well productivity and reduced production costs in complex or aging reservoirs.