KLA-FREE® - liquid polyamine shale inhibitor. It is a mildly cationic low molecular weight polymer supplied as a highly active aqueous solution. Protects water-sensitive shales and clays by decreasing the shale tendency to absorb water, suppress clay minerals hydration. Inhibition mechanism is similar to K+ ions, but in this case NH4+ plays a role of an agent that suppress interlayer water absorption.
Description
KLA-FREE® - liquid polyamine shale inhibitor. It is a mildly cationic low molecular weight polymer supplied as a highly active aqueous solution. Protects water-sensitive shales and clays by decreasing the shale tendency to absorb water, suppress clay minerals hydration. Inhibition mechanism is similar to K+ ions, but in this case NH4+ plays a role of an agent that suppress interlayer water absorption.
Ammonium cation easily penetrates the pores and serves as a K+ ions substitution at a much lower concentration.
Lab tests show that 14-17 kg/m3 of KLA-FREE® provide the inhibition level equivalent to 6% of KCl. But unlike KCl polyamine shale inhibitor KLA-FREE® remains effective at high NaCl concentration.
KLA-FREE® is not toxic, does not contain organochlorides.
Applications/Functions
- improves clay and shale stability
- suppresses clay minerals hydration, prevents from swelling
- coats wellbore wall and cuttings with the protective film, prevents cuttings disintegration
- coats metal surfaces with the protective film, prevents bit and BHA balling
- prevents metal corrosion
Advantages
- unlike KCl does not negatively influence logging results
- unlike KCl – less transportation and storage costs
- unlike KCl does not harm the environment
Recommended treatment
2-7 ppb (5-20 kg/m3) depending on the desired inhibition properties. 5-6 ppb (14-17 kg/m3) of KLA-FREE® corresponds to 6% KCl with regards to the inhibition level. It is not recommended to use KLA-FREE® if the mud MBT value is higher than 49 kg/m3. It is recommended to keep the pH level less than 10 to avoid ammonia gas smell release.
Typical properties
Dark brown to black liquid
Handling
Please refer to the MSDS for specific instructions
Packaging
KLA-FREE® liquid polyamine shale inhibitor is packaged in 55-gal (208l) drums