The use of nano-sized Tapioca starch as a natural water-soluble polymer for filtration control in water-based drilling muds

A new additive derived from Tapioca starch has been developed which is highly effective in filtration control in water-based drilling muds. Laboratory experiments were conducted for five different concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2% and 2.5%) and three sizes (64μ, 7μ, and 920 nm). The nano-sized starch exhibited an improved fluid loss by 64.2% in the concentration of 2.5%, while reducing the mud cake thickness by 80.9%.