Screening of Lost Circulation Materials for Geothermal Applications: Experimental Study at High Temperature

Vivas, Cesar; Salehi, Saeed

doi:10.1115/1.4053071

Screening of Lost Circulation Materials for Geothermal Applications: Experimental Study at High Temperature

Journal Article · 14 December 2021 · Journal of Energy Resources Technology

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4053071· OSTI ID:1980682

Vivas, Cesar ^[1]; Salehi, Saeed ^[1]

Mewbourne School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering, The University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019-1003

Abstract

This study presents a laboratory experimental research to determine the characteristics of lost circulation materials (LCMs) capable of addressing thermal degradation, providing bridging and sealing in geothermal conditions. Eleven different materials were tested: Walnut Fine, Walnut Medium, Sawdust, Altavert, Graphite Blend, Bentonite Chips, Micronized Cellulose (MICRO-C), Magma Fiber Fine, diatomaceous earth/amorphous silica powder (DEASP), Cotton Seed Hulls, and a Calcium Carbonate Blend. The filtration and sealing pressure of the LCMs were measured with HPHT equipment up to 149 °C (300 °F). Besides, the particle size distribution (PSD) of fine granular materials was measured. The results show that the performance of some LCM materials commonly used in geothermal operations is affected by high temperature. Characteristics such as shape and size made some materials more prone to thermal degradation. Also, it was found that the PSD of LCMs is a key factor in the effectiveness of bridging and sealing fractures. The results suggest that granular materials with a wide particle size distribution PSD are suitable for geothermal applications.

Research Organization:: Univ. of Oklahoma, Norman, OK (United States)

Sponsoring Organization:: USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE)

DOE Contract Number:: EE0008602

OSTI ID:: 1980682

Journal Information:: Journal of Energy Resources Technology, Vol. 144, Issue 3; ISSN 0195-0738

Publisher:: ASME

Country of Publication:: United States

Language:: English

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