DRILLING GRADE CLAY MINERAL
Drilling Bentonite
(Na, Ca)₀.₃₃(Al, Mg)₂(Si₄O₁₀)(OH)₂·nH₂O
Overview
Drilling bentonite is a clay mineral with high swelling capacity, water absorption, and suitable viscosity. It is widely used in oil and gas drilling operations.
It helps stabilize wellbore walls, control drilling fluids, and reduce fluid loss.
Chemical Formula: (Na, Ca)₀.₃₃(Al, Mg)₂(Si₄O₁₀)(OH)₂⋅nH₂O
Typical Analysis
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Montmorillonite | > 80% |
| Moisture | < 12% |
| Water Absorption | > 600 |
| pH | 8 – 10 |
Main Types
Sodium Bentonite
- High swelling capacity
- High viscosity
- Suitable for fluid-loss control
- Suitable for soft formations
Calcium Bentonite
- Lower swelling capacity
- Higher resistance to ionic contamination
- Suitable for selected hard formations and saline water conditions
Applications
- Oil and gas well drilling
- Wellbore stabilization
- Drilling mud preparation
- Drilling lubrication
- Drill-bit cooling
- Cuttings transportation
- Fluid-loss control
