Advances in Polymer Nanocomposites for Drilling Fluids: A Review

作者：Shahbaz Wakeel, Ammara Aslam, Jianhua Zhang · 发表于：Materials · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.3390/ma18204809 · 被引用次数：11 · 研究领域：Drilling and Well Engineering、Tunneling and Rock Mechanics、Oil and Gas Production Techniques

Hydrocarbon exploration and extraction increasingly rely on drilling fluids that guarantee operating safety and efficiency, particularly in ultra-deep, high-temperature, and unconventional reservoirs. Traditional drilling fluids, especially for water-based muds (WBMs), have several problems, including excessive fluid loss, severe swelling in shale and instability in high-pressure/high-temperature (HPHT) conditions. Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) are new types of drilling fluid additives that combine the vast surface area and reactivity of nanoparticles (NPs) with the structural flexibility and stability of polymers. This combination enhances rheology, reduces filtrate loss, and, most importantly, creates hydrophobic and pore-blocking barriers that prevent shale from swelling. This review highlights important improvements in drilling fluids with PNCs regarding exceptional rheological properties, low fluid loss, and improved suppression of the shale swelling. The particular focus was placed on the specific mechanisms and role that PNCs play in enhancing shale stability, as well as their responsibilities in improving rheology, heat resistance, and salt tolerance. Current advancements, persistent hurdles, and prospective prospects are rigorously evaluated to emphasize the scientific and industrial trajectories for the development of next-generation, high-performance drilling fluids. Moreover, the current challenges and future opportunities of PNCs in drilling fluids are discussed ...