Developing a Polyanionic Cellulose Alternative That Passes Microtox Standards
Starch is an incredibly versatile polymer. When the right science is applied it provides benefits for a variety of industrial applications and can overcome many complex challenges. A great example is how our chemists developed a solution to solve the Microtox testing riddle for the oil and gas drilling market in Canada.
For many years, one of our starch-based products was used by Canadian oil and gas drilling operators. It was a cost-effective and environmentally sound alternative to Polyanionic Cellulose (PAC) drilling fluids for land spreading while drilling (LWD) operations. During LWD operations, cuttings obtained during drilling are spread over the field at the drilling site. However, when the Canadian government set the Microtox standard for evaluating the toxicity of drilling products and wastes procedure, it eliminated the option of using traditional starch-based solutions.
Microtox test systems are based on the use of luminescent bacteria, which produce light as a by-product of normal metabolism. Traditional starch-based drilling fluids were simply not biologically friendly enough to the bacteria to pass the test.
We went back to the lab, intent on finding a solution that would pass the Microtox test. By applying our science and application knowledge, we developed StarDril, which produces a drilling fluid that passes the turbidity and light scattering demands of the Microtox text.
Chemstar received a patent for StarDril. When combined with our close proximity to the Canadian border, it is a perfect match for the region. StarDril continues to be the “go-to” starch for the two main distributors of drilling fluids in Canada.
If you are facing unique challenges for an oil or gas drilling operation, we’d be happy to discuss your situation in greater detail and explore how we can use our science to devise a starch-based solution that fits your needs.
-Bruce Hanshaw
Business Manager, Global Oil & Gas Applications