Microwave-based downhole activation method for wellbore consolidation applications

摘要

Wellbore strengthening during drilling may be achieved by including chemicals in the drilling fluid that can be polymerised when exposed to microwave energy. Selected chemicals are mixed with the drilling fluid but do not react with it. The chemicals concentrate in a filter cake on the borehole wall during drilling-fluid circulation. A tool, which comprises a microwave source, is used to trigger polymerisation or crosslinking reactions within the filter cake. The polymerisation or crosslinking reactions cause the formation of a film or gel that strengthens the wellbore.