BENAQUA® 1101

An aqueous, hectorite-based rheology solution for high-temperature, high-pressure drilling environments

BENAQUA® 1101 is our innovative drilling fluid additive for freshwater systems. This drilling fluid is Elementis’ first aqueous rheology solution that can withstand high-temperature, high-pressure (HTHP) drilling environments, enabling energy companies to maintain optimal process and cost efficiency while enjoying the sustainability benefits of aqueous drilling fluids.

High-temperature drilling with a lower carbon footprint

Aqueous drilling fluids have traditionally been unsuitable for HTHP drilling environments because most thermally degrade around 160°C. BENAQUA® 1101 offers an effective and economical alternative to these solutions. Based on natural hectorite specifically modified for drilling applications from our mine in California, this aqueous rheology solution delivers temperature stability up to 205°C – higher than any other clay-based additive. 

Compared to other additives, BENAQUA® 1101 also offers superior control of settling behaviours, mitigating fluid sag and ensuring wellbore stability. And, unlike the alternative, synthetic polymers, its non-Newtonian rheology reduces syneresis and ensures long-term storage stability.

With these properties, BENAQUA® 1101 provides a groundbreaking solution for markets that rely increasingly on HTHP drilling, including not only mainstream oil and gas but also the emerging geothermal energy market. It offers companies the ability to maintain the efficient and effective drilling operations they are used to with oil-based drilling fluids, with the lower carbon footprint associated with aqueous solutions.

Backed by 30 years of rheology leadership

Elementis has been a world leader in oil-based rheology solutions for HTHP drilling fluids for over 30 years. This is thanks in large part to our proprietary hectorite clays, which provide the basis for high temperature stability. BENAQUA® 1101 takes this proven industry experience and scientific expertise and transfers it to the aqueous product line.

主要特性

  • Lower carbon footprint: BENAQUA® 1101 offers a less carbon-intensive alternative to oil-based solutions.
  • High temperature stability: This solution offers temperature ability above 175°C, even up to 205°C – a level not offered by any other clay-based additive.
  • Superior settling control: BENAQUA® 1101 controls settling more effectively than other clay-based additives, mitigating fluid sag and ensuring wellbore stability.
  • Cost-effective: Synthetic polymers are the only other non-oil-based option for HTHP drilling fluids, and they come at a high cost. BENAQUA® 1101 offers a more economical alternative.
  • Reduced syneresis and stable storage: This solution offers consistent, non-Newtonian aqueous rheology that reduces syneresis and supports long-term storage stability.
  • Synergistic possibilities: BENAQUA® 1101 can be blended with synthetic polymers to further improve the system’s rheology.