Influences of Reservoir Conditions on the Performance of Cellulose Nanofiber/Laponite-Reinforced Supramolecular Polymer Gel-Based Lost Circulation Materials

Abstract

Lost circulation during drilling has significantly hindered the safe and efficient development of oil and gas resources. Supramolecular polymer gel–based lost circulation materials have shown significant potential for application due to their unique molecular structures and superior performance. Herein, a high–performance supramolecular polymer gel was developed, and the influence of reservoir conditions on the performance of the supramolecular polymer gel was investigated in detail. The results identified an optimal formulation for the preparation of supramolecular polymer gel comprising 15 wt% acrylamide, 3 wt% 2-acrylamide-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid, 2.6 wt% divinylbenzene, 5 wt% polyvinyl alcohol, 0.30 wt% cellulose nanofibers, and 3 wt% laponite. The performance of the gel-forming suspension and the resulting supramolecular polymer gel was influenced by various factors, including temperature, density, pH, and the intrusion of drilling fluid, saltwater, and crude oil. Nevertheless, the supramolecular polymer gels consistently exhibited high strength under diverse environmental conditions, as confirmed by rheological measurements. Moreover, the gels exhibited strong plugging performance across various fracture widths and in permeable formations, with maximum breakthrough pressures exceeding 6 MPa. These findings establish a theoretical foundation and practical approach for the field application of supramolecular polymer gels in complex geological formations, demonstrating their effectiveness in controlling lost circulation under challenging downhole conditions.