PHPA | Partially Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide

PHPA  or Partially Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide is an encapsulating polymer that is generally used in conjunction with potassium chloride to provide a high degree of shale inhibition.

The polymer is anionic, attaches itself to the positively charged edges of clay platelets, thus binding the particle together. It can inhibit cuttings dispersal to make solids removing simply & efficiently. The adsorbed polymer also lowers the speed of water penetration into shale. Thus improving well bore stability.

Partially Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide or PHPA is not adversely affected by common contaminants. However, simultaneous high temperature or high PH conditions should be avoided, as polymer hydrolysis can release traces of ammonia gas. Partially Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide PHPA is added as a treatment for the cuttings and the sides of the well bore, & should be added on a regular basis while drilling shale sections. 

It is a copolymer of anionic character and high molecular weight. It is a water soluble polymer, which is mainly used as a highly efficient fluid loss reducer, viscosifier &  protective colloid for shale’s & cutting in fresh water, calcium, sodium brines and KCL mud systems. It is compatible with most of the drilling fluid products, biopolymers, PAC, CMC etc. It maintains whole stability by preventing shale swelling & erosion.

Application:
The PHPA has been used successfully for over 20 years to stabilize sloughing shales in fresh, KCl & salt water based drilling fluids. The PHPA offers a high activity product in a low viscosity, easy to handle product. 

Advantages:
It functions as an inhibitor by coating or encapsulating formation & cuttings.
It can be used as a flocculent in clear water drilling. 
It also restricts the interaction of water hydratable & dispersible shale’s. 
It also provides inhibition properties to fresh water, sea water and also in presence of calcium ions. 
High viscosity of this drilling fluid helps in better removal of cuttings from bore hole. 
Better shell stabilization prevents water loss through cracks and fissures.

Physical Properties: