GLYDRIL MC
GLYDRIL* MC polyglycol is a medium-cloud-point additive designed for
medium-to-high salinity polyglycol systems.
It can provide improved wellbore stability, lubricity, high-temperature filtration control, plus reduce dilution rates and bit balling. While
polyglycols are most effective when used in conjunction with an inhibitive salt, such as KCl, in a non-dispersed polymer system, they can be
used as additives in most water-base systems. GLYDRIL MC polyglycol is acceptable for most applications specifying low-toxicity additives.
Typical Physical Properties
Physical appearance ...........................................................................................................................................................Straw yellow to opaque, brown liquid
Specific gravity ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1.012
Solubility in water .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Variable*
Flash point ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................230°F (110°C) (PMCC)
Cloud point ................................................................................................................................................................................... >150°F (66°C) @ 3% in 10% NaCl*
*See cloud point curve below
Applications
GLYDRIL MC product has application in polyglycol systems in fresh-to-medium high salinity make-up water and can be used in wells with
moderate formation temperatures. When used properly, this medium-cloud-point additive helps to stabilize troublesome shales by plugging
shale pores, preventing the equalization of hydrostatic pressure away from the wellbore.
Polyglycol systems are generally low-to-medium density, non-dispersed polymer systems utilizing an electrolyte to activate the cloud point
polyglycol. They have application where troublesome water-sensitive shales are to be drilled, and can be used in lieu of oil-base systems for
certain applications. GLYDRIL MC polyglycol can be used in thermally activated mud emulsion (TAME) applications (near the cloud point) or in
situations where it is insoluble (above the cloud point).
Normal concentrations of GLYDRIL MC polyglycol range from 2 to 5% by volume of the liquid phase or 7 to 17.5 lb/bbl (20 to 50 kg/m3). After the
initial treatment, periodic treatments should be made to maintain the desired concentration. A field test method is available from the M-I
SWACO Technical Service Department to monitor the concentration of GLYDRIL MC polyglycol. Above the cloud point, GLYDRIL MC polyglycol is
insoluble and tends to increase the plastic viscosity (as all insoluble additives do).
“Cloud point” is the temperature where polyglycol additives change from being soluble (at lower temperatures) to being insoluble (at higher
temperatures). Shale inhibition is improved when the polyglycol is insoluble or “clouded out.” The cloud point temperature can be reduced
by increasing salinity (or other electrolytes) and/or by increasing the concentration of GLYDRIL MC polyglycol, as shown in Figures 1 and 2.
Figure 1 Figure 2
Advantages
• Improved wellbore stability and shale inhibition
• Improved lubricity
• Improved high-temperature filtration control
• Reduced dilution rates and mud consumption
• Reduced bit balling potential
• Low toxicity
Limitations
• As an insoluble liquid it causes slight increases in plastic viscosity
Toxicity and Handling
Bioassay information is available upon request.
Handle as an industrial chemical, wearing protective equipment and observing the precautions as described in the Material Safety Data
Sheet (MSDS).
Packaging and Storage
GLYDRIL MC polyglycol is packaged in bulk and 55-gal (208-L) drums.
Store in dry, well-ventilated area. Keep container closed. Keep away from heat, sparks and flames. Store away from incompatibles. Follow
safe warehousing practices regarding palletizing, banding, shrink-wrapping and/or stacking.
P.O. Box 42842
This document is supplied solely for informational purposes and M-I SWACO makes no guarantees or
warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the accuracy and use of this data. All product
Houston, Texas 77242-2842
warranties and guarantees shall be governed by the Standard Terms of Sale. www.miswaco.com
E-mail: questions@miswaco.com
©2004 M-I L.L.C. All rights reserved.* Mark of M-I L.L.C.
MS-10753 7/04
