SP-101 water-based-mud fluid loss control additive is a medium-molecular-weight, anionic additive used to reduce fluid loss in freshwater and seawater muds. This synthetic additive has a high temperature limit and is not subject to bacterial degradation.

Applications

SP-101 additive is an effective additive for reducing fluid loss and stabilizing rheology in a wide range of water-based systems, including low-solids, nondispersed, and dispersed weighted systems. It is most effective in freshwater fluids that are low in soluble calcium. SP-101 additive is used most often in low-solids, nondispersed polymer systems such as the POLY-PLUS system and in high-temperature applications. Normal treatments range from 0.5 to 1 lbm/bbl [1.43 to 2.85 kg/m³].

A viscosity “hump” can occur in nondispersed or high-solids systems with the initial addition of SP-101 additive (when the concentration is low, ~0.1 lbm/bbl [0.29 kg/m³]). Subsequent treatments reduce this viscosity hump in clean, low-solids muds. SP-101 additive attaches to clay particles and helps to form a protective colloid on exposed shales and encapsulated cuttings.

SP-101 additive is also effective as a deflocculant and high-temperature stabilizer in low-solids systems at concentrations greater than 1 lbm/bbl [2.85 kg/m³]. Pilot tests are recommended prior to treating with SP-101 additive.

Advantages

• Reduces fluid loss and improves filtercake quality
• Thermally stable to >400 degF [>204 degC]
• Not subject to bacterial degradation
• Stabilizes flow properties in environments in excess of 400 degF [204 degC]

Limitations

• Highly anionic, precipitated by high concentrations of divalent cations such as calcium and magnesium
• Total hardness must be maintained below 320 mg/L with soda ash
• Should not be used in calcium systems such as lime, gyp, or untreated seawater muds that have high concentrations of soluble calcium

Toxicity and handling

Bioassay information is available upon request. Handle as an industrial chemical, wearing protective equipment and observing the precautions described in the safety data sheet.

Packaging and storage

SP-101 additive is packaged in 50-lbm [22.7-kg] multiwall paper sacks. Store in a dry, well-ventilated area. Keep container closed. Store away from incompatibles. Follow safe warehousing practices regarding palletizing, banding, shrink-wrapping, and stacking.