Research and Development: Utilization of Local Additive in the Cementation of HPHT Wells in Nigeria

Abstract Cementing of high temperature wells poses a big challenge and requires special considerations in slurry design applications. Among others, the problem of strength retrogression encountered during the life of the well if special additives are not added to the slurry design is critical. Silica sand is one of such additives that is used to provide strength stability while maintaining good permeability characteristics when static temperature in the zone exceeds 230°F. It is obvious that almost all of the additives used in Nigeria for oil well operations, including silica sand are imported. However, it is imperative to note that this material is in commercial quantity at Ibi in Taraba State. Moreover, test results indicated that results obtained from lab experimentation as well as field applications with the local silica sand compares favourably with the imported one. For about four years, this local product has been deployed in Nigeria for high temperature, high pressure wells with huge success. This has resulted in cost savings by oil companies; break through in home based technology in line with local capacity and capability development, a step towards realizing the Nigerian vision 2020. This paper is aimed at highlighting a local content initiative effort in research and development to source silica sand locally to be used as a suitable alternative for imported silica sand, the success story in field application as well as the challenges for effective implementation.