Influence of the Addition of Silica Nanoparticles on the Compressive Strength of Cement Slurries under Elevated Temperature Condition

Abstract

Drilling ever deeper, and thus in increasingly difficult conditions, is associated with restrictive requirements that must be met by cement slurries. This implies the need to use advanced, innovative measures that will significantly improve the performance parameters of the cement slurry and cement stone. Due to its unique properties, an admixture of nanosilica improves the properties of the cement stone and allows for appropriate zone insulation. The article presents the results of strength tests of cement stone samples with the addition of silica nanoparticles deposited in an environment of increased temperature of 90 °C. In all three cases of modification with an admixture of nanosilica (type 1, 2 and 3, concentration 0.5%, 1% and 5%), the cement stone shows an improvement in mechanical properties, which is manifested by an increase in compressive strength. The most homogeneous results of strength measurements are for cement slurries with an admixture of type 3 nanosilica (the highest average strength: 132–149% in relation to the base sample). They show the smallest stretch marks and deviations from the average. The highest average increase in strength is for the sample with the addition of 1% nanosilica (on average 124% in relation to the base sample). This amount causes the greatest increase in strength with no significant deterioration of rheological parameters.