Red Mud-Based Geopolymer Cement for Sustainable Oil Well Construction: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

Abstract Red mud is a waste byproduct of aluminum production that can pose significant environmental challenges. However, recent studies have shown that red mud can be used as a raw material for geopolymer cement for construction purposes, which could also potentially have applications in the oil and gas industry. This paper aims to review the potential of red mud-based geopolymer cement for use in oil and gas wells, including its chances, possibilities, and complications. Geopolymer cement has several advantages over traditional Portland cement, including lower carbon emissions, improved durability, and higher resistance to chemical attack. However, the production of geopolymer cement typically requires the use of high-quality raw materials, which can be expensive and may not be readily available in all locations. Red mud is a waste material that is generated during the extraction of alumina from bauxite ore. Red mud contains significant amounts of alumina, silica, and iron oxide, which are the primary components for geopolymer cement production. Consequently, red mud possesses the potential to be a low-cost and readily available source of raw materials for geopolymer production. Many research studies have explored the application of geopolymer cement derived from red mud for diverse purposes, including construction materials, wastewater treatment, and soil stabilization. However, red mud-based geopolymers for oil and gas wells are relatively unexplored. Oil and gas wells require cement with high compressive strength, low permeability, and resistance to high temperatures and aggressive chemicals. Therefore, the potential of red mud-based geopolymer cement to be used in oil and gas wells is an interesting topic for further investigation. This paper reviews some existing literature on the use of red mud-based geopolymer cement and its potential applications for well cementing. The review will focus on the key properties of red mud-based geopolymer cement. The review will also discuss the challenges and complications accompanying the use of red mud-based geopolymer cement in oil wells, such as the potential for corrosion and the effects of different types of oilfield fluids on the cement properties. In conclusion, red mud-based geopolymer cement has the potential to be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional Portland cement in oil and gas wells. However, further research is needed to fully evaluate the suitability of red mud to be incorporated in well cementing, and to address the challenges and complications associated with this application.