Optimizing Separation of Waste Drilling Muds through Ultraflocculation and Flocculant Selection

poses a significant environmental challenge due to their toxicity and
potential for contamination. The investigation aims to test different
powder flocculants of approximately the same molecular weight and
their interaction with waste drilling mud and to identify the flocculant
with the best qualities for further use in the industry. The empirical
method was applied in the study, during which experiments were
carried out on a sample of drilling mud, along with quantitative and
statistical analyses. Flocculation was carried out using a Couette
cylindrical flocculator. Three flocculants, namely A-150, N-100, N300, and C-494, from a single manufacturer, Kemira, were also
chosen for the study. As a result of the laboratory experiments, it was
determined that N-300 was the best flocculant, giving optimum
results in the study. It has been found to be capable of separating the
drilling mud into water and solids fractions as quickly as possible. In
addition, the use of ultra-flocculent treatment to improve the intensity
of the sedimentation process of clay suspensions is a prerequisite.
Thus, the drilling fluids treated in this way are more environmentally
friendly, increase productivity and duration, and reduce production
costs. The novelty lies in systematically evaluating various powder
flocculants and applying ultraflocculation, a sophisticated
hydrodynamic treatment method, to optimize the separation process.