Formation and evolution of particle migration zones for different drilling fluid compositions in porous media

Flow of suspensions through the complex porous network is typically characterized by the initial spurt and then the formation of internal/ external filter cake which impedes the flow velocity. The transient mechanisms involved during the particle migration phenomenon need to be studied carefully as it is crucial for effectively managing the flow characteristics of drilling fluids and their impact on subsurface reservoirs. In this study, constant pressure permeation experiments are carried out using a specially designed apparatus to quantify the formation and evolution of particle migration zones using advanced image processing algorithms. Additionally, a comprehensive pre-test and post-test characterization of drilling fluids/ filtrates and the porous medium revealed intricate insights into the dynamics of particle migration. Four distinct particle migration/ filtration zones such as internal filter cake, primary filtration, secondary filtration and fluid loss are identified based on the change in the concentration gradient. The influence of additives on the growth of these zones is quantified during the filtration process. The concentration of barite/ micronized calcium carbonate and xanthan gum predominantly controls the filtration process by enhancing the particle plugging and retention time, respectively. In addition to the in-depth understanding of the particle migration zones, the transition from kinetic to capillary flow is identified by performing the fractal analysis. The analysis revealed that drilling fluid containing more barite exhibits a dominant capillary flow. Finally, an analytical model has been modified by considering the influence of different additives to predict the depth of penetration, which is comparable with the experimental results.