IMPROVING FILTRATION PROPERTIES OF DRILLING MUDS FORMULATED WITH LOCAL CLAYS (DARAZO HANYAR HASHIDU)

ABSTRACT The search for cost-effective and efficient drilling mud formulations has led to the investigation of local clay and starch as potential additives. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of local clay with starch drilling mud formulations in controlling fluid loss and mudcake thickness, crucial factors in maintaining wellbore stability and drilling efficiency. Five drilling mud samples were prepared, varying the concentration of starch (0-20g) and local clay (25g). The muds' viscosity, gel strength, fluid loss, and mudcake thickness were evaluated according to API standards. The effects of starch concentration on mud properties were analyzed, and the optimal formulation was identified. Results showed that the local clay-starch mud formulations demonstrated improved viscosity, gel strength, and fluid loss control compared to traditional bentonite-based muds. The optimal starch concentration of 20g yielded a mudcake thickness of 2.1mm and fluid loss of 14.2 mL, meeting API standards. The study revealed a significant reduction in fluid loss (34.6%) and mudcake thickness (46.5%) with the addition of starch. The findings suggest that local clay and starch can be viable, cost-effective alternatives for drilling mud formulations, enhancing wellbore stability and drilling efficiency. The use of local clay with starch muds can minimize environmental impacts associated with traditional drilling fluids and reduce drilling costs.