Impact of oxide nanoparticles as hydrate inhibitors on polymer rheology for low-temperature stimulation of gas hydrate reservoirs

Abstract

Gas hydrate production faces several challenges, including low sediment permeability and the potential for rapid hydrate reformation during depressurization-based recovery. While hydraulic fracturing offers a promising means to enhance permeability and stimulate gas flow, its success in hydrate-bearing sediments depends on the performance and stability of fracturing fluids under low-temperature conditions. This study does not investigate hydrate formation kinetics directly; rather, it focuses on evaluating the compatibility of fracturing fluids integrated with oxide nanoparticles, specifically alumina (Al₂O₃), silica (SiO₂), and zinc oxide (ZnO), that are known to influence hydrate behavior. The objective is to assess how these nanoparticles affect the rheological properties, structural integrity, and stability of guar-based linear and crosslinked gels. Results indicate that all nanoparticles improved fluid viscosity and stability at optimal concentrations, with ZnO demonstrating the most pronounced enhancement. ZnO-integrated gels exhibited superior long-term resistance to syneresis and structural degradation, followed by Al₂O₃, while SiO₂ showed negligible impact compared to the reference fluid. In viscoelastic testing, SiO₂ performed best at low concentrations in linear gels, whereas ZnO tended to reduce elasticity in crosslinked systems. A comparative summary of rheological performance and gel stability is presented to guide nanoparticle selection for field applications. This work represents one of the first comprehensive studies on the rheological compatibility of nanoparticles as gas hydrate kinetic modifiers with polymer-based fracturing fluids, addressing a key knowledge gap in the application of stimulation technologies to hydrate-bearing sediments. The findings provide critical insights into how nanoparticle type and concentration affect gel behavior at low temperatures, offering a foundation for designing next-generation, multifunctional fracturing fluids for gas hydrate reservoirs. By systematically linking inhibitor integration with gel performance, this study supports the advancement of sustainable and effective hydrate production techniques, marking a significant step toward practical field implementation.