SPERSENE chrome lignosulfonate is a multipurpose deflocculant and gel-strength reducer, temperature stabilizer, and filtration-control additive for use in all water-based drilling fluids.

Applications

SPERSENE lignosulfate has proven to be an excellent all-purpose deflocculant and fluid-loss-control agent. It is effective for viscosity control and fluid-loss reduction in all water-based mud systems, including freshwater, brackish water, seawater, salt, lime, gyp, and potassium systems. Laboratory tests and field usage have demonstrated its superior deflocculating ability—even in the presence of contaminants and elevated temperatures.

Normal treatments of SPERSENE lignosulfate range from 1 to 12 lbm/bbl [2.85 to 34.2 kg/m³]. Initial treatments usually range from 1 to 6 lbm/bbl [2.85 to 17.1 kg/m³], depending on the mud system, solids concentrations, and the desired results; treatments can be added easily to the system through the mud hopper.

Because of the product’s low pH, SPERSENE lignosulfate treatments require additional caustic soda or an alternative alkaline material to maintain a consistent pH. A normal ratio is one sack of caustic soda for every four sacks of SPERSENE lignosulfate. It is most effective in mud systems with a pH in the range of 9 to 11. For lower-pH systems, the product can be premixed in a higher-alkalinity solution prior to being added to the active mud system.

Advantages

• Highly effective deflocculant and rheology stabilizer
• Compatible with all water-based mud systems
• Temperature tolerant from 325 to 350 degF [163 to 176 degC]
• Helps reduce fluid loss without high concentrations of clay or filtration control additives
• Effectively inhibits bentonitic cuttings, shale hydration, or both when used in sufficient concentrations
• Tolerant to and continues to function in the presence of contaminants
• Contains the more-acceptable Cr⁺³ chrome valence state

Limitations

• Most effective in alkaline systems with a pH of 9.5 or above
• Not acceptable for all applications. Chrome-free SPERSENE CF lignosulfonate is available for other applications.

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

SPERSENE lignosulfate 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.