Abstract
There are several active and passive methods for controlling the production of formation sand. The main objective is to produce at the maximum sand-free rate without compromising the well’s hydrocarbon production and longevity of the completion system placed. This paper presents a new chemical method and the latest case histories from offshore reservoirs. The new method changes the zeta potential of solid surfaces, thus strengthening attraction between the particles to optimally align proppant, sand particles, fines, or coal fines. Laboratory tests are presented, showing the mechanism of zeta potential and lab tests performed on unconsolidated cores by internal and independent labs. Core flood tests consisted of measuring the permeability before and after the treatment and the formation sand retention. More than 100 jobs have been treated with this chemical solution, with positive and promising results. Operational procedures and recommendations are presented on several wells treated.
