Review of the Perspectives and Study of Thermo-Responsive Polymer Gels and Applications in Oil-Based Drilling Fluids

Gels. 2023 Dec 11;9(12):969. doi: 10.3390/gels9120969.

Abstract

Thermoresponsive polymer gels are a type of intelligent material that can react to changes in temperature. These materials possess excellent innovative properties and find use in various fields. This paper systematically analyzes the methods for testing and regulating phase transition temperatures of thermo-responsive polymer gels based on their response mechanism. The report thoroughly introduces the latest research on thermo-responsive polymer gels in oil and gas extraction, discussing their advantages and challenges across various environments. Additionally, it elucidates how the application limitations of high-temperature and high-salt conditions can be resolved through process optimization and material innovation, ultimately broadening the scope of application of thermo-responsive polymer gels in oil and gas extraction. The article discusses the technological development and potential applications of thermo-responsive polymer gels in oil-based drilling fluids. This analysis aims to offer researchers in the oil and gas industry detailed insights into future possibilities for thermo-responsive polymer gels and to provide helpful guidance for their practical use in oil-based drilling fluids.

Keywords: oil and gas exploration; oil-based drilling fluids; phase transition temperature; thermo-responsive polymer gels.

Publication types

  • Review

Grants and funding

This work was supported by the China University of Petroleum (East China) Independent Innovation Research Program Project (27RA2302016), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 52274025 and 51991361), the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2021YFC2800803), the CNPC’s Major Science and Technology Projects (No. ZD2019-184-003), the Key R&D Program of Shandong Province (No. 2020ZLYS07).