Next-Gen Drilling and Completions Fluids Lab

aDVANCING Drilling & Completions Fluid tECHNOLOGY

The Next-Gen Drilling and Completions Fluids Lab at the University of Wyoming delivers cutting-edge research capabilities in drilling and completions fluids. Our lab specializes in fluid evaluation under challenging surface and subsurface conditions. We target applications in horizontal drilling, geothermal wells, carbon storage, and subsurface energy applications.

Research Areas of Focus: Advanced Fluid Characterization and Analysis, Nanoparticle-Enhanced Fluids and Emulsions, CO₂ and Hydrogen Storage Well and Cement Integrity

Affiliated Faculty: Dr. Tawfik Elshehabi

Lab Instrumentation

The lab provides advanced instrumentation aligned with American Petroleum Institute (API) Recommended Practices 13B-1 and 13B-2 for precise fluid characterization. Our key equipment includes the High-Pressure, High-Temperature (HPHT) viscometer and filtration apparatus, programmable roller oven, permeability plugging tester, and equipment for comprehensive rheology, filtration, solids, and chemical analyses.

The Microtrac Sync analyzer is a distinctive strength, combining tri-laser diffraction (LD) with dynamic image analysis (DIA) for detailed particle characterization from sub-micron to millimeter scales. This system delivers essential insights into particle size distribution, morphology, and fluid stability. Complementing this capability, our dynamic linear swellmeter precisely assesses shale-fluid interactions, supporting the development of fluids that enhance wellbore stability and minimize formation damage.

 

Industry Collaboration

We welcome industry leaders and academic researchers to collaborate in tackling complex drilling and completions challenges. Leveraging our expertise in fluid stability, advanced rheological analysis, shale interaction studies, and innovative fluid design, our collaborative projects will advance environmentally sustainable drilling fluid solutions specifically tailored for demanding subsurface energy applications.