Combining natural and synthetic fibers as fillers to improve Ghana's Portland cement for oil wells

Abstract

Cementing is a crucial operation in the oil and gas industry, where Portland cement is commonly used. However, locally produced Portland cement in Ghana falls short of meeting the rigorous standards required for oil well cementing. The study examined the effects of adding coconut fiber and fiberglass to the cement slurry to improve its rheological and compressive strength properties. The free fluid content, rheological properties, and compressive strength of the filler incorporated in local Portland cement slurries were monitored. The outcome of the experimental procedures indicates that incorporating these fibers significantly enhances the mechanical performance of the cement, with a marked increase in compressive strength values ranging from 6.31 MPa (0 % fibers) to 14.60 MPa (1.25 % coconut fiber and 1.25 % fiber glass) which meets the API requirement for an oil well. The rheological properties indicated an increased plastic viscosity ranging from 58 mPa s (0 % fibers) to 91.5 mPa s (1.25 % coconut fiber and 1.25 % fiberglass) and decreased yield point ranging from 31.36 pa (0 % fiber) to 22.74 pa (1.25 % coconut fiber and 1.25 % fiberglass). The free fluid content decreased from 1.39 % (0 % fiber) to 0.75 % (1.25 % coconut fiber and 1.25 % fiberglass). Therefore, this research highlights the potential of natural and synthetic fibers to enhance the performance of local Portland cement, contributing to efficient and a more cost effective cementing solutions in the oil and gas industry in Ghana.