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M-I GEL

Viscosifier

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M-I GEL viscosifier is a premium-grade bentonite (a sodium montmorillonite clay) that will yield 91 to 100 bbl of 15-cP mud per ton [1.7 m3/100 kg].

It is used as a primary filtercake-building, filtration-control and suspension agent in freshwater systems, and has application in all water-based drilling fluid systems. M-I GEL viscosifier is a high-quality product which meets the ISO 13500 Clause 9 (formerly known as API Spec 13A, Section 9) specifications for bentonite.

Typical Physical Properties  
Physical appearance Light tan to gray-green powder
Specific gravity 2.3–2.6
Bulk density 48–52 lbm/ft3 [769–833 kg/m3]
ISO 13500 Clause 9 Specifications: Suspension properties (Suspension of 22.5 grams into 350 cm3 water):  
    Viscometer dial reading at 600 rpm Min. 30
    Yield point/plastic viscosity ratio Max. 3
    Filtrate volume Max. 15 cm3
Residue >75 um (wet screen) Max. 4 wt%

Applications

M-I GEL viscosifier is used to increase viscosity and reduce fluid-loss in water-based drilling fluids. It is a cost-effective means of achieving viscosity, fluid-loss control, and filtercake quality in freshwater and seawater muds. Typical concentrations for M-I GEL viscosifier range from 5 to 35 lbm/bbl [14.3 to 100 kg/m3].

As with all bentonite products, the yield decreases as water salinity increases. In muds containing more than 10,000 mg/L chlorides, the performance of M-I GEL viscosifier is significantly reduced unless prehydrated in freshwater before adding to the mud system.

Advantages

  • Hydrates more than other types of clays and is best for generating viscosity, developing gels for suspension and controlling filtration
  • Small particle size, unique flat shape, and high surface area of hydrated M-I GEL viscosifier provides superior filtration characteristics
  • Promotes the deposition of thin, compressible filter cakes in the wellbore

Limitations

  • Performance reduced in salty (>5,000-mg/L Clˉ) or hard (>240-mg/L Ca2+) waters due to decreased hydration

Toxicity and handling

Bioassay information is available upon request. Handle as an industrial chemical, wearing protective equipment and observing the precautions as described in the safety data sheet.

Packaging and storage

M-I GEL viscosifier is packaged in 100-lbm [45.4-kg] multiwall paper sacks, 40-kg sacks, big bags, and is available in bulk. Store in a dry, well-ventilated area. Keep container closed. Store away from incompatibles. Follow safe warehousing practices regarding palletizing, banding, shrink-wrapping, and stacking.

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Catalog HDD Mining and Waterwell

Catalog outlining product listings and applications.

Product Sheet MI GEL Viscosifier

Used as a primary filtercake-building, filtration-control and suspension agent in freshwater systems.

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