Optimizing Red Mud/Class G Cement Mixture for Lightweight Cement Slurries

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study explores the viability of incorporating red mud, an aluminum manufacturing byproduct, into oil well cement production, aiming to enhance sustainability in the oil and gas industry.This comprehensive study employed an array of experimental procedures, constructing cement slurries that combined Saudi Class G cement with red mud in an 85/15 proportion.The intent behind this mixture was to evaluate whether red mud could serve as a sustainable alternative raw material in cement production without compromising quality.To elaborate further, the study's analytical depth involved adjusting the proportions of viscosifiers and fluid loss additives to fine-tune the slurry's characteristics, targeting an optimal balance of viscosity and fluid retention.The goal was to produce a cement slurry with a density of 13.5 pounds per gallon (ppg), which classifies it as a lightweight slurry, often advantageous for shallow casings cementing and cementing across fragile formations.In-depth evaluations were performed to analyze critical aspects of the slurry, namely its rheological behavior, free water content, and thickening time.Initial findings pointed out that when only Class G cement and red mud were used, the resulting material properties did not meet industry expectations.However, upon the strategic addition of viscosifiers and fluid loss additives to the slurry formula, a marked improvement in slurry performance was observed, meeting the stringent standards for oil well cements.These enhancements are significant as they demonstrate the potential role of red mud in creating more eco-friendly cementing solutions that do not sacrifice quality or performance.The research thus puts forward red mud as a credible, sustainable component in oil and gas sector.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication58th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2024, ARMA 2024
PublisherAmerican Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA)
ISBN (Electronic)9798331305086
DOIs
StatePublished - 2024
Event58th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2024, ARMA 2024 - Golden, United States
Duration: 23 Jun 202426 Jun 2024

Publication series

Name58th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2024, ARMA 2024

Conference

Conference58th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2024, ARMA 2024
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityGolden
Period23/06/2426/06/24

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
Copyright 2024 ARMA, American Rock Mechanics Association.

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geochemistry and Petrology
  • Geophysics

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