Characterization of a novel aluminum-based shale stabilizer

► The shale stabilizer is soluble when alkaline and precipitates when acid. ► It can also precipitate after the addition of Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions in solution. ► It precipitates as microsphere pseudoboehmite and humic acid floc. ► Better to decrease pore pressure transmission in shale for wellbore stability than conventional ones. ► Better to increase actual osmotic pressure in shale for wellbore stability than conventional ones.