Oil-based drilling fluid inspired by paints recipes

Modifying the oil properties by heating it in presence of inorganic or hybrid materials is a very common practice used in different fields including painting. To improve the drying and rheological properties of oil binders, ancient recipes mention the addition of metal compounds while heating; pigments can then be ground in such treated oils to be used as a paint. The process of forming a gel system using pigments and oil paint medium has significant similarities to the method of formulating oil-based drilling fluids in the petroleum industry. Taking inspiration from this process, the oil-based drilling fluid was successfully prepared by stirring together organoclay and linseed oil under high temperature. The structure and rheology of organoclays containing Na+ and Zn2+ in linseed oil were compared. The rheological tests evaluated the properties of the oil-based drilling fluid, specifically focusing on its suitability for drilling operations. XRD and TEM highlighted the structure of the organoclay and the self-assembly of platelets induced by the clay layers exfoliation. The results indicated that the combination of linseed oil and organic clay exhibited favorable rheological behavior and viscoelastic properties, showing its great application potential in the field of drilling fluids.