A comprehensive review on the high-density clear completion fluids for applications in HPHT well completion

Abstract

This paper will provide a broad high-level comprehensive review of various high-density completion fluids (HDCF) for the high pressure and high temperature (HPHT) reservoir. The goal is to explain the advantages and disadvantages of various high-density completion fluids over conventional completion fluids. Existing completion fluids solutions are low to mid-density range, expansive, limited availability, corrosion issues, and not suitable for all types of reservoir formations. Solids-free high-density completion fluids differ from conventional completion fluids in several key aspects such as high density, solids-free, low viscosity, alkaline pH, less corrosive, minimum formation damage, and thermal stability. The desired requirements from a high-density completion fluid system include insignificant solids, providing rheological stability, fulfilling environmental conditions, and reducing reservoir damage. A suitable completion fluid system can provide sufficient density for well control while eliminating solid weighting materials which are potentially formation damaging. [Received: January 13, 2022; Accepted: May 25, 2022]