Synthesis of Nanosilica and its application as Water Based Mud Rheology Enhancer

Abstract

This study synthesized nanosilica from sodium silicate solution using precipitation method for 3:1 ammonia/ethanol ratio, and examines the effectiveness of the nanosilica in formulating high-performance water based mud system. Sodium silicate solution (SSS) is a low-cost precursor than tetraethyl orthosilicate. Three (3) solutions of sodium silicate with concentrations 0.5 N, 1 N and 1.5 N were used to precipitate nanosilica. The use of sodium silicate solution in alkaline medium produces less agglomerated nanosilica. The results gave Similarly, three (3) different samples of silica nanoparticles (Sample A, Sample B, and Sample C) with each concentration respectively. The silica nanoparticles from the Sample A had the smallest in size and quantity, and also the most dispersed. For Sample B, the nanosilica produced was apparently bigger than that of sample A in size and quantity produced. Sample C was produced using two procedures: Sample C1 (with ultra Sonicator) and Sample C2. (ultra Sonicator). Samples C1 and C2 produced the biggest size and quantity of nanosilica with less the dispersion. But, there were aggregation problems, due to the higher concentration of sodium silicate solution. There was no much difference between samples C1 and C2; just that with the former, the nanosilica was better dispersed and the latter was little more aggregated. The precipitated nanosilica, Sample B with 1 N concentration of SSS gave the optimum size and quantity, and was used to formulate the examined high-performance water based mud system. The silica nanoparticles had a positive effect on the drilling fluid systems flow properties. This due to their ultrafine size and high surface area. Also, nanosilica production is cheap and feasible, so it could easily replace other expensive additives.