Optimization of Graphene-Enhanced Geopolymer Cement for Oil Well Applications

Mohd Firdaus Habarudin, Nasir Shafiq, Afif Izwan Abd Hamid, Nurul Nazmin Zulkarnain, Ahmad Amirhilmi A Razak, Siti Humairah A Rahman

Abstract

Geopolymer cement is a viable and sustainable replacement for conventional Portland cement, drawing attention for its enhanced durability and reduced shrinkage compared to API Class G cement, along with its potential to reduce CO2 emissions. This research aims to develop a fly-ash-based geopolymer cement incorporating graphene oxide (GO) under high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) conditions for oil-well cementing applications. The investigation proceeds in three distinct phases to meet its objectives. Initially, Phase 1 identified the optimal GO concentration as a strengthening additive in the geopolymer mixture. GO addition within certain concentrations, markedly improves compressive strength. Phase 2 focused on applying the optimal formulation (Formulation OP 1) in functional tests for oil well cementing, while Phase 3 assessed the effects of temperature and pressure on the compressive strength of Formulation OP 1 to simulate real-world downhole conditions. Higher temperatures increased compressive strength, likely due to accelerated geopolymerization and improved pore structure. Validation experiments confirmed the accuracy of the predictive models and demonstrated the robustness of Formulation OP 1 under varying conditions. This study highlights geopolymer cement's capability as a sustainable, high-performance option for challenging oil well settings, presenting a significant advancement over traditional oil well cement solutions.

 

Keywords: fly ash, alkaline activator ratio, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), compressive strength, central composite design.

 

https://doi.org/10.55463/issn.1674-2974.51.6.32


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