A novel gemini viscoelastic surfactant (VES) for fracturing fluids with good temperature stability

Abstract

A category of gemini surfactants with novel structures were designed and synthesized as thickening agents of clean fracturing fluids in this research. The desired products were characterized by high resolution mass spectrometry (ESI-HRMS) and infrared spectrometry (FT-IR GX). Fluid samples with a formula of 5 wt% of products and 1 wt% of KCl were evaluated. The SEM studies revealed a good network microstructure and obvious viscoelasticity, which is favorable for a proppant suspension. Furthermore, the evaluation of their rheological properties at high temperatures revealed good thermal stabilities of these fluids up to 139 °C, particularly for VES-M (the spacer for the surfactant using methylamine and epoxy chloropropane). Comparative analysis of the rheological properties showed that since long chains of N-substituents in the middle of the molecules could enhance steric hindrance and rigidity, it is unfavorable for molecular entanglement and increases the viscosity of the VES aqueous solution. Proppant-support and gel breaking evaluations were also performed. It can be seen that nearly 100% proppant suspension was observed for 180 min at ambient temperature and complete gel breaking was achieved.