Application of natural materials containing carbohydrate polymers in rheological modification and fluid loss control of water-based drilling fluids: A review

Abstract

As the concept of green and sustainable development gains widespread acceptance, the demand for non-toxic, biodegradable, renewable, and widely sourced natural materials (NMs) is increasing across various fields. In oil and gas well drilling operations, water-based drilling fluids (WBDFs) are at the forefront of eco-friendly practices. Their rheological modification and fluid loss control properties are two fundamental and crucial aspects ensuring safe drilling. This review explores the research progress in enhancing these key properties of WBDFs using NMs, primarily focusing on polysaccharide polymers. It analyzes the sources, effective components, and potential functions of these NMs, and introduces three clean production methods: mechanical processing, extraction, and fermentation. Furthermore, the review focuses on the contributions of NMs obtained through these methods to the rheological and fluid loss control properties of WBDFs, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. Despite challenges such as raw material supply stability, material synergy, compatibility, process scalability, field application, resistance to complex geological conditions, and economic feasibility, NMs, due to their outstanding environmental benefits, remain strong candidates for sustainable drilling fluid additives. Future research should focus on optimizing the performance of these materials and addressing existing issues to promote green and sustainable development in the drilling industry.