Rheology and high-temperature stability of novel viscoelastic gemini micelle solutions

ABSTRACT

To broaden the application of clean fracturing fluid based on surfactant, a gemini cationic C₂₅-tailed surfactant, called FL-25, was synthesized. FL-25 can form a wormlike viscoelastic fluid in aqueous solution without adding any organic or inorganic salts. The rheological properties and thermal stability of the novel gemini micelle solutions were further investigated. The results show that the gemini micelle solution possesses viscoelasticity, thixotropy, and shear-thinning properties. The apparent viscosity of the viscoelastic gemini micelle solution at a shear rate of 170 s⁻¹ remains approximately 69 mPa · s at 110°C for 90 minutes, showing good high-temperature-resistance property. FL-25 may be a novel gemini surfactant applied in clean viscoelastic surfactant fracturing fluids in the oil and gas field.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Clean fracturing fluid
• gemini cationic surfactant
• rheological behaviors
• thermal stability
• viscoelastic surfactant

Additional information

Funding

This project was granted financial support from the National Science and Technology Major Project of China (2017ZX05023003), the National High Technology Research and Development Program “863” Project of China (2013AA064801), and the Advanced Research Program of Research Institute of Exploration and Development, CNPC (Y41601).