EVALUATION OF CASSAVA PEEL STARCH – KAOLIN BLENDS IN LOCAL BENTONITE MUD FORMULATION
Abstract
This research investigated the use of starch extracted from cassava peels, combined with kaolin, to improve the properties of drilling fluids formulated with locally sourced bentonite. The study aimed to reduce the reliance on imported drilling fluid additives by exploring sustainable and cost-effective alternatives, cassava peel starch (derived from agricultural waste) and kaolin (naturally occurring clay). Scanning Electron Microscopy revealed layered, flaky morphology for kaolin and densely packed microstructures of granules of varying size and shape for the starch, while Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy confirmed the presence of key func- tional groups responsible for the material’s performance. Different mud samples were prepared from these locally sourced materials and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). Laboratory tests were conducted to evaluate their effects on the density, viscosity, gel strength, pH, and filtration performance of the fluids, and thereafter compared to determine the suitability of the mud pre- pared with locally sourced materials. Results showed that while local bentonite had weak rhe- ological and filtration properties, the addition of cassava peel starch and kaolin significantly improved rheological properties, fluid loss and mud cake thickness. Sample F emerged the best with respect to rheology, with a plastic viscosity of 58.4 cP and yield point of 13.6 lb/100ft2. Based on filtration properties, sample D is the optimal beneficiated sample, with fluid loss vol- ume (11.8 mL) and filter cake thickness (0.25 cm). The study concluded that cassava peel starch and kaolin are viable alternatives to imported additives in water-based drilling fluids. It is rec- ommended that future research should involve field trials and potential chemical modifications to further enhance their efficiency for industrial use.
Keywords: Local Bentonite, Drilling Fluid, Rheological properties, Filtration properties, Cas-
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