Synthesis and Evaluation of Bis-quaternary-Based Surfactants as Additives for Water-Based Mud

Two series of cationic gemini surfactants, alkanediyl-α,ω-bisN,N-dimethyl alkyl (octyl or dodecyl)ammonium] dibromide (R-s-R; s = 6, 10, 12 and R = 8 and 12) were prepared and evaluated as additives for water-based mud. The chemical structures of the prepared surfactants were confirmed using FTIR and mass spectroscopy. Surface activity of these compounds has been studied and their surface properties including surface tension, emulsification power, critical micelle concentration, effectiveness, maximum surface excess and minimum surface area were determined. The results showed that the prepared compounds have significant surface activity, especially those of longer hydrophobic chain length. The prepared cationic gemini surfactants were evaluated as viscosifiers and filter loss additives for water-based mud formulated from local Na-montmorillonite clay. XRD analysis was carried out to the Na-montmorillonite clay to determine the interaction of the surfactants with inter layers of the clay structure. Rheological properties, gel strength, thixotropy, filtration properties and the effect of temperature on rheological properties of the water-based mud were studied. The results indicated that the gemini surfactants have a positive effect on the rheological and filtration properties of the Na-montmorillonite clay according to American Petroleum Institute specifications.