FORMULATION OF OIL-BASED MUD USING PLANT BASED OILS (GMELINA ARBOREA AND RICINUS COMMUNIS)

This research investigates the potential of plant seed oil (Gmelina Arborea and Ricinus Communis) as an alternative to conventional diesel oil in the formulation of oil-based drilling mud (OBM). The study evaluates these fluid based on their density, rheological, filtration, and thermal properties of these plant oil-based mud compared to diesel OBM, focusing on its suitability for drilling operations. The pH, toxicity level, carrying capacity and frictional pressure losses were also some fluid parameters evaluated in this research. Experimental analysis reveals that Gmelina OBM exhibits lower viscosity and superior filtration characteristics, enhancing its prospects as a sustainable and cost-effective drilling fluid. The experimental analysis also showed Ricinus Communis to possess strong drilling fluid properties when compared with the conventional diesel mud. The toxicity level of the plant seed OBM were almost 50% lower than diesel mud reiterating their environmental sustainability. However, the analysis highlights the necessity of additive chemistry and trans-esterification to optimize these plant seed based mud performance(s). The findings established Gmelina and Castor seed oil as technically viable and environmentally friendly substitutes for diesel oil in drilling fluid formulations, offering significant contributions to sustainable energy practices.