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The 2,200-hp mud pump for offshore applications is a single-acting reciprocating triplex mud pump designed for high fluid flow rates, even at low operating speeds, and with a long stroke design. These features reduce the number of load reversals in critical components and increase the life of fluid end parts.

The pump’s critical components are strategically placed to make maintenance and inspection far easier and safer. The two-piece, quick-release piston rod lets you remove the piston without disturbing the liner, minimizing downtime when you’re replacing fluid parts.

Created specifically for drilling equipment inspectors and others in the oil and gas industry, the Oil Rig Mud Pump Inspection app allows you to easily document the status and safety of your oil rigs using just a mobile device. Quickly resolve any damage or needed maintenance with photos and GPS locations and sync to the cloud for easy access. The app is completely customizable to fit your inspection needs and works even without an internet signal.Try Template

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Since bacteria are the ultimate cause of one major source of corrosion, biocides are often included with conventional drilling fluid and in source water. These biocides are intended to kill or reduce the bacteria, H2S, organic carbons, and metals that often prevent successful outcomes in geotechnical engineering boreholes. Examples of biocides used in drilling fluid include chlorine, glutaraldehyde, sodium hydroxide, and sodium hypochlorite. However, conventional biocides used in drilling and other industrial processes have significant drawbacks. Typical biocides are dangerously toxic and/or are relatively expensive to use in adequate volumes. Many biocides break down or dissipate quickly and, therefore, must regularly be replaced, which leads to increasing costs. Also, some biocides require relatively high concentrations to be effective, which can have detrimental effects on the surrounding ecosystem or to well workers or other personnel. One drawback that has drawn particular concern in recent years is toxicity of biocides. Toxic biocides may be leaching from well bores into aquifers or other unintended locations. The potential environmental drawbacks of using these biocides in drilling fluids may result in further regulation and increased cost in the future. Disposing of drilling fluids that contain these toxic biocides results in significant costs and concerns. Additionally, the high concentrations of conventional treatment materials may contribute to the corrosion of casings, pumps, pipelines and other engineered materials. Also, recovered drilling fluids or produced water may contain elevated concentrations of various toxic chemicals, metals, and hydrogen sulfide, and other gases. SUMMARY

In embodiments of each of these methods, additional operations may be performed and/or parameters may be specified. In some embodiments, the method also includes using the carrier material and the manufactured metallic nanoparticle material in the sub-surface earth activity to chemically decompose a majority or substantially all of the hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and/or the hydrosulfide ions (HS−) exposed to the carrier material and the manufactured metallic nanoparticle material. In some embodiments, the method also includes using the carrier material and the manufactured metallic nanoparticle material in the sub-surface earth activity to decrease a source of corrosion within the sub-surface earth activity. In some embodiments, the method also includes using the carrier material and the manufactured metallic nanoparticle material in the sub-surface earth activity to treat both a liquid and a gas within the sub-surface earth activity. In some embodiments, the manufactured metallic nanoparticle material includes silver nanoparticles, and substantially all of the silver nanoparticles have a diameter between about 2 nanometers and about 100 nanometers and/or an average diameter between about 5 nanometers and about 15 nanometers.

While many embodiments are described herein, at least some of the described embodiments incorporate metallic nanoparticle compositions, in isolation or as part of a solution or other combination, as a biocide into an industrial application. In some embodiments, the metallic nanoparticle composition includes metallic silver nanoparticles permanently bonded to structured water that utilize multiple modes of biocidal action to destroy bacteria (e.g., pathogens) catalytically or synergistically (i.e., using multiple modes of toxicity), without using up the embodied modes of action.

Many industrial processes involve the drilling, or boring, of deep, subterranean holes into the earth. These holes are often referred to as boreholes. For example, in the oil and gas industry, holes more than a mile deep are often bored beneath the ground. This drilling process generally includes pumping various types of fluid that provide cooling for a drill bit, remove particles cut by the drill bit, and, in some cases, provide power to the drill bit. Fluid is also pumped into the borehole for other reasons, such as supporting the walls of the borehole and to stimulate production of the well. These fluids are commonly referred to as “drilling fluid,” “drilling mud,” “completion fluid,” “work-over fluid,” “packer fluid,” “fracturing fluid,” “stimulation fluid,” “conformance control fluid,” “permeability control fluid,” “consolidation fluid,” and so forth. As used herein, “drilling fluid” may refer to any type of fluid pumped into a borehole during drilling, production, maintenance, or restoration processes. In some embodiments, the drilling fluid is water, which may or may not contain additional chemical substances.

FIG. 1 depicts a diagram of one embodiment of a system 100 for drilling a well using drilling fluid. The system 100 includes a derrick 102, a drill string 104, and a mud pump 106. The system 100 drills a borehole 108 into the ground.

In some embodiments, the mud pump 106 pumps drilling fluid 114 from the surface, through the drill string 104, to the bottom of the borehole 108. The mud pump 106 may be a reciprocating pump or other device capable of producing high pressure in the drilling fluid 114. The mud pump 106 may include a plurality of pistons/plungers to pump the drilling fluid 114, and may be sized relative to the size and depth of the borehole 108. The mud pump 106 may further include one or more dampeners to reduce vibration.

The drilling fluid 114 is pumped by the mud pump 106 through the hollow drill string 104 to the drill bit 110 at the bottom of the borehole 108. The drilling fluid 114 then flows upward in the annular space between the drill string 104 and the wall of the borehole 108, known as the annulus 112. The drilling fluid 114 exits the top of the annulus 112 and be recirculated through the mud pump 106, the drill string 104, the drill bit 110, and the annulus 112.

In one embodiment, the drilling fluid 114 includes a metallic nanoparticle composition. The metallic nanoparticle composition may reduce the activity of or kill at least a portion of SRB in the drilling fluid 114. As a result, production of corrosive material in the drilling fluid 114 may be reduced. In a specific embodiment, the metallic nanoparticles include silver nanoparticles. Although the following description refers to silver nanoparticles, the description provided may be applicable to nanoparticles that are formed by, or include, other metals or metallic characteristics. The silver nanoparticles may be present in the drilling fluid 114 in any number of concentration levels. As one example, the silver nanoparticles may be present in the drilling fluid 114 in a concentration of between about fifty parts per billion and five parts per million. In another example, the silver nanoparticles may be present in the drilling fluid 114 in a concentration of up to about 100 parts per million. In another example, the silver nanoparticles may be present in the drilling fluid 114 in a concentration of down to about one part per billion. The concentration level used within a particular application may depend on the type of industrial application for which the silver nanoparticle composition is used. Additionally, other concentration ranges may be applicable for nanoparticles which include metals other than silver.

In some embodiments, the drilling fluid 114 is allowed to settle in a mud pit 116 before recirculation to allow cuttings to settle out of the drilling fluid 114. The drilling fluid 114 also may be monitored or modified before being recirculated. For conventional biocide additives, this settling process may result in settling of the biocide along with the cuttings, chemical transformation and degradation, or volatilization to the atmosphere. The concentration of the biocide in the drilling fluid 114 may, therefore, be reduced, along with efficacy. In addition, conventional biocides may be degraded or consumed relatively quickly while in use, thus requiring addition of more biocide to the drilling fluid 114 over a relatively short time.

In some embodiments, silver nanoparticle compositions have physical characteristics that cause them to remain in suspension while the drilling fluid 114 rests in the mud pit 116. The small size of the nanoparticles, in conjunction with the structure of the nanoparticles and various fundamental forces, may cause the nanoparticles to remain suspended and, consequently, not settle in the mud pit 116, or to settle relatively slowly and to retain its biocidal properties. As a result, a biocide including a silver nanoparticle composition or a solution which includes essentially only the silver nanoparticle material may maintain concentration and efficacy longer than other existing biocides.

The silver nanoparticles may be stable in the composition without surfactants. Therefore, the drilling fluid 114 may be free of surfactants. However, other embodiments may include surfactants.

The silver nanoparticle composition, in some embodiments, retains efficacy as a biocide longer and neutralizes more SRB than other conventional biocides used in drilling and other industrial applications. Efficacy may be aided by motion of the nanoparticles that may be caused by physical characteristics of the nanoparticles. The relatively small nanoparticles (relative to, for example, microparticles) may exhibit relatively high levels of Brownian motion. In some embodiments, the metallic nanoparticle composition includes metallic silver nanoparticles that are permanently, essentially permanently, or semi-permanently bonded to structured water that utilize multiple modes of biocidal action to destroy bacteria (e.g., pathogens) catalytically or synergistically (i.e., using multiple modes of toxicity), without using up the embodied modes of action. Consequently, the silver nanoparticle compositions may retain their efficacy as a biocide longer than larger particles.

In certain embodiments, the biocidal additives for the drilling fluid 114 include no organic polymers. In other words, the drilling fluid 114 may contain exclusively inorganic biocides. The drilling fluid 114 may contain silver nanoparticles that substantially do not include organic matter. In one embodiment, the biocidal additives for the drilling fluid 114 may be primarily or exclusively a suspension of silver nanoparticles in water. In another embodiment, the biocidal additives for the drilling fluid 114 may be a suspension of silver nanoparticles in water combined with one or more additional substances. Embodiments of the silver nanoparticles are discussed in greater detail below in relation to FIG. 4.

In certain embodiments, the biocidal additives for the drilling fluid 114 also may include hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The hydrogen peroxide may interact with the silver nanoparticles to enhance antimicrobial activity of the drilling fluid 114. In particular, the addition of hydrogen peroxide can counteract some or all of the effects of high salinity, which otherwise might negatively affect the effectiveness of a silver nanoparticle solution. In this way, it may be said that the hydrogen peroxide at least partially neutralizes the salinity. In some embodiments, the hydrogen peroxide acts as a biocide for anaerobic microbes. The hydrogen peroxide may constitute approximately 0.5% to 5.0% of the overall solution. Other embodiments may include more or less hydrogen peroxide. Other embodiments may be confined to a more narrow percentage range of the overall solution (e.g., between about 1.0-4.0%, between about 2.0-3.0%, etc.). As one example, the hydrogen peroxide may be present in the drilling fluid 114 in a concentration of between about 500 parts per billion and about 10 parts per million. In another example, the hydrogen peroxide may be present in the drilling fluid 114 in a concentration of up to about 100 parts per million. In some embodiments, hydrogen peroxide is present together with the silver nanoparticle in the drilling fluid 114. This embodiment may utilize a range of silver nanoparticle concentrations, as explained above, and hydrogen peroxide concentrations in the range of about 500 parts per billion to about 100 parts per million.

FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a system 200 for hydraulic fracturing to stimulate oil and gas production. The system 200 includes a mud pump 106, drilling fluid 114, and a perforating gun 204. The system fractures rock around a portion of the borehole 108 to facilitate production of the well.

The perforating gun 204 is then removed from the borehole 108, and the borehole is filled with a fracturing fluid. The fracturing fluid may be similar, in some aspects, to the drilling fluid 114 used in drilling the borehole 108 or may be a specialized fracturing fluid which includes similar silver nanoparticle solution, as described above. The fracturing fluid is placed under pressure in the borehole 108 by the mud pump 106 or another pump or pressure generating device. The mud pump 106 may be the same pump used in the drilling process or may be a specialized fracturing pump.

In some embodiments described herein, the fracturing fluid used in the fracturing process includes silver nanoparticles in a structured water suspension. The silver nanoparticles may include the properties and characteristics described herein in relation to FIG. 1 and elsewhere. In one embodiment, the silver nanoparticles are suspended in water which is added to the fracturing fluid. The silver nanoparticle suspension may act as an effective biocide with relatively low concentrations when compared to other biocides as described herein above. In some embodiments, the silver nanoparticle suspension will be present in concentrations in the ranges described previously. In some embodiments, the silver nanoparticle suspension will be present in the fracturing fluid together with hydrogen peroxide in the concentration ranges described previously.

In addition to the drilling and fracturing processes described above, a silver nanoparticle suspension may be used in other industrial applications. For example, a silver nanoparticle suspension may be used as a biocide in a similar manner in several other drilling processes, including but not limited to water injection to stimulate well production, reclamation of drilling fluid water, well servicing, and sour gas mitigation. Silver nanoparticle suspensions may be used as a biocide in a similar manner in other industrial applications, including, but not limited to, the following: fluid optimization; water disinfection; water purification; water treatment; water separation; produced water recovery and treatment; well conditioning; drilling fluid conditioner; drilling fluid mineral; drilling fluid friction reducer; cement conditioner; surface flood irrigation; mechanical vapor enhancement; contamination counteractive; rehabilitation/reclamation curative; reservoir/formation conditioner; aquifer restoration; soil remediation; scale inhibitor; bacteria elimination; pathogen elimination; drilling process enhancement; oil and water separation; fluid integration; casing protection; bacteria prevention; ultraviolet property similarities; arsenic elimination; petroleum refining process; land surface discharge; non-point source discharge; evaporation pond treatment and discharge control; wetland treatment; dust control; field wash; potable/non-potable water; iron removal; underground injection; enhanced evaporation; water balancing; hydrogen sulfide elimination (sulfur reducing bacteria), and other similar applications.

Other industrial applications in which silver nanoparticle suspensions may be used include, but are not limited to, the following: surfactant; ion exchange; electrodialysis (ED); electrodialysis reversal (EDR); capacitive deionization technology; electrochemical activation technology; electro-deionization; plant/vegetation nutrient; electromagnetic semiconductors. Silver nanoparticle solutions also may be used in processes of reduction in chloride and sulfide (H2S and HS−), nitrate, nitrite, and/or other ion concentrations. Silver nanoparticle solutions also may be used in processes of reduction in selenium, arsenic, copper and/or other metal concentrations. Silver nanoparticle solutions also may be used in processes of reduction in polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons and other organic compounds.

Other analyses, also using ASTM Standard Methods, demonstrate the ability of the silver nanoparticle solution to reduce sulfide concentrations. Results of these Sulfide Chemical Oxidation Tests are also included in Appendix A.

In general, embodiments of the metallic nanotechnology described herein, or equivalent metallic nanotechnology, include, but are not limited to, activities within the general fields of engineering, construction, operations, planning, designing, exploration, and production endeavors. Some example of potential activities within these fields include, but are not limited to, production, refining, manufacturing, treatment, chemical, petro-chemical, gas to liquids, geothermal, geotechnical, processing, pipelining, fluids, hydrocarbons, organic vapors, transportation, handling, seismic, geological, geophysical, technical, exploitation, engineering, sedimentary, magnetic, gravimetric, transference, conductivity, reservoirs, seabed, meteorological, environmental, mud pits, mud systems, mud fluids, mud products, mud additives, biocide replacements or additives, viscosity enhancement, optimization, recovery methodology, wellbore fluids, cementing fluids, slick-line fluids, hydraulic fracturing fluids, industrial water applications, gas or pressurized fracturing, work over fluids, cementing fluids, bore holes, circulation processes, connate water, formation water, interstitial water, mineral aggregates or organic matter, sulfur reducing bacteria, all other surface and subsurface bacteria known or unknown, produced water, settling pond fluids, reserve pit fluids, closed loop fluids, miscible fluids, water-flooding, water wells, disposal wells, fluid injections, input wells, outpost wells, flow treaters, enhanced recovery, salt water fluids, salt water disposal, hydrogen sulfide, dissolved gasses, carbon dioxides, gas injection, water-flood, tertiary methods employing chemicals, gases, heat, efficiency increases of resource recovery, pumpers, tanks consumables, cleaning, tank batteries, tank farms, tank storage, air drilling, air/gas lifts, swabbing, heater treating, hot oiling, acidizing, pigging, cleaning, casing, tubing"s, down-hole servicing, wire line, work over, and similar activities. Additional examples include various activities related to the following: facilities, gathering facilities, water treatment systems, piping systems, pipelines, pump stations, lift stations, transfer stations, storage facilities, waste disposal facilities, accommodations, supply units, drill sites, drilling units, disposal facilities, wellheads, flow lines, injection lines, cathodes, separation processes, artificial lift methodologies, advanced recovery techniques, transport equipment, commissioning/decommissioning, rehabilitation, well abandonment, environmental management, evaporation ponds, desalinate evaporation/settling ponds, produced fluids, water treatment of organics, inorganic, metals or other compositions with tangible or intangible characteristics for reduction, increase stabilization, expansion, evaporation, lubrication, acidity, alkalinity, separation, sterilization, activation, and disposal. Additional examples of other commercial and/or industrial applications activities include, but are not limited to, the following: oil, gas, condensates, flammable and non-flammable gasses, hydrocarbons, distillates, gathering processes, dehydrating, compressing, treating and transporting methods, logging, grading, digging, dirt work, preparation, consumables, perforating, and so forth. Also, embodiments of the metallic nanotechnology described herein may be used in conjunction with ongoing research and development activities. Some examples of such research and development activities include, but are not limited to, the following: land based, offshore, mobile, fixed, self-contained, jack ups, semi-submersibles, drill-ships, water barges, drilling rigs, drill modules, transports, workforce accommodations, petroleum refining, chemical plants, urea plants, water disposal facilities, injection facilities, hydrogen sulfide facilities, and so forth. Furthermore, embodiments of the metallic nanotechnology described herein may be used in conjunction with any activities related to environment and/or safety regulations for subs-surface earth activities which do or may result in emissions or extractions that may be treated by the properties of one or more embodiments of the manufactured metallic nanoparticles described herein, or metallic structures equivalent to one or more of the described embodiments of manufactured metallic nanoparticles.

FIG. 4 shows a view of one embodiment of a silver nanoparticle 300. The silver nanoparticle 300 includes a surface 302 and an interior 304. The silver nanoparticle 300 may be included in a silver nanoparticle suspension.

The surface 302, in one embodiment, is silver oxide. The surface 302 may have a metallic character. In some embodiments, the surface 302 has a covalent character. The interior 304 may be elemental silver.

The silver nanoparticle 300 may have an exact or average diameter 306 that defines a size of the silver nanoparticle 300. In some embodiments, the diameter 306 or size of the silver nanoparticle is between about 0.002 micrometers and about 0.030 micrometers (i.e., 2-30 nanometers). The silver nanoparticles may have variable sizes with an average diameter of about 0.002-0.030 micrometers (i.e., 2-30 nanometers).

The silver nanoparticle 300 may be one of a plurality of silver nanoparticles in a composition. The composition may be a composition of the silver nanoparticles in water. In some embodiments, a majority of the silver nanoparticles in the composition are between about 0.002 micrometers and about 0.030 micrometers in diameter. In another embodiment, at least 75% of the silver nanoparticles in the composition are between about 0.002 micrometers and about 0.030 micrometers in diameter. In a further embodiment, at least 90% of the silver nanoparticles in the composition are between about 0.002 micrometers and about 0.030 micrometers in diameter. In some embodiments, at least 95% of the silver nanoparticles in the composition are between about 0.002 micrometers and about 0.030 micrometers in diameter. In some embodiments of the composition, the silver nanoparticles average 0.0106 micrometers in diameter. As explained above, the silver nanoparticles may exhibit biocidal properties against SRB and/or other bacteria, either within a solution or as a dehydrated substance (e.g., powder).

FIG. 5 is a flowchart diagram depicting one embodiment of a method 400 for using a silver nanoparticle suspension in a drilling application. The method 400 is in certain embodiments a method of use of the system and apparatus of FIGS. 1-3, and will be discussed with reference to those figures. Nevertheless, the method 400 may also be conducted independently thereof and is not intended to be limited specifically to the specific embodiments discussed above with respect to those figures. Also, although the following description primarily references drilling fluid and equipment, the same or similar operations may be implemented for fracturing fluid and equipment, or for other industrial fluid and associated equipment.

As shown in FIG. 5, a silver nanoparticle suspension is provided 402. The suspension may be in the form of a drilling fluid 114 and may be provided 402 in a mud pit 116 or production water. The suspension may exhibit antimicrobial properties and be usable as a biocide.

A mud pump 106 for drilling mud (or another pump for fracturing fluid) may pump 404 the suspension into a borehole 108. In some embodiments, the suspension is pumped 404 into the borehole 108 through a drill string 104. In another embodiment, the suspension is pumped 404 directly into the borehole 108.

The suspension in the borehole 108 may be pressurized. Pressure may be applied 406 to the suspension by the mud pump 106 or by another device capable of applying pressure. In one embodiment, the applied pressure causes the suspension to circulate through the drill string 104 and back up through an annulus 112 between the borehole wall and the drill string 104. In another embodiment, the suspension is placed under a static pressure, such as in hydraulic fracturing.

In some embodiments, the suspension is removed and reclaimed 408 from the borehole. The suspension may be removed and reclaimed 408 as part of a drilling operation where the suspension flows out of the annulus 112 where it is captured and returned to the mud pit 116 for reuse. In another embodiment, the suspension may be pumped out of the borehole 108 and contained in a vessel (not shown) for future use or disposal.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide reduced human and environmental toxicity and increased safety in a biocide for use in industrial applications. A metallic suspension of silver nanoparticles may be used in place of other biocides or in applications where traditional biocides would be unsafe.

Also, for reference, certain embodiments of the silver nanoparticle solution described herein are distinguishable from other biocidal compositions. As one example, embodiments of the silver nanoparticle solution described herein may be used in a strict form which excludes other potential additives such as conventional toxics, polymers, fillers, coagulants, proppants, surfactants, organic biocides, and so forth. As an example, embodiments of the silver nanoparticle solution described herein may be implemented exclusive of organic constituents that would more readily degrade over time. As another example, embodiments of the silver nanoparticle solution described herein may be implemented which are effectively soluble, or the practical equivalent of a soluble solution. This contrasts with some conventional silver-based biocides which are formed as so-called microparticles or within concoctions of various materials that are relatively unstable within substantially insoluble metallic/particulate matrices. Other embodiments may exhibit other advantages and/or distinguishing features, which will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art in light of the description provided herein.

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Our Brazilian Bum Bum Cream contains all-powerful, caffeine-rich Guaraná extract to help visibly tighten the appearance of skin. With five times the caffeine of coffee, Guarana is known to help stimulate micro-circulation. Our cream also gives you a subtle shimmering effect, thanks to our naturally silver Mica. This beautifully reflects light on the skin for an instant effect of smooth, healthy skin.

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conventional treatment materials may contribute to the corrosion of casings, pumps, pipelines and other engineered materials. Also, recovered drilling fluids or produced water may contain elevated concentrations of various toxic chemicals, metals, and hydrogen sulfide, and other gases.

[0007] In one embodiment, a composition of silver with a total concentration of silver of between about one part per billion and fifty parts per million, the silver in the form of silver nanoparticles in suspension and having an interior of non-metallic material and a surface of silver oxide, and the composition exhibits biocidal properties.

material in the sub-surface earth activity to chemically decompose a majority or substantially all of the hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and/or the hydrosulfide ions (HS~) exposed to the subsurface earth activity material and the manufactured nanoparticle material. In some embodiments, the method also includes using the sub-surface earth activity material and the manufactured nanoparticle material in the sub-surface earth activity to decrease a source of corrosion within the sub-surface earth activity. In some embodiments, the method also includes using the sub-surface earth activity material and the manufactured nanoparticle material in the sub-surface earth activity to treat both a liquid and a gas within the sub-surface earth activity. In some embodiments, the manufactured nanoparticle material includes silver nanoparticles, and substantially all of the silver nanoparticles have a diameter between about 2 nanometers and about 100 nanometers and/or an average diameter between about 5 nanometers and about 15 nanometers.

[0014] Figure 4 shows a view of one embodiment of a silver nanoparticle as an example of a nanoparticle with a metallic shell and a non-metallic core.

[0018] While many embodiments are described herein, at least some of the described embodiments incorporate nanoparticle compositions, in isolation or as part of a solution or other combination, as a biocide into an industrial application. In some embodiments, the nanoparticle composition includes silver nanoparticles permanently bonded to structured water that utilize multiple modes of biocidal action to destroy bacteria (e.g., pathogens) catalytically or synergistically (i.e., using multiple modes of toxicity), without using up the embodied modes of action. In other embodiments, other types of biocide materials, other than silver or in addition to silver, may be used. For reference herein, a nanoparticle which includes a metallic component may be referred to as a metallic nanoparticle. However, a metallic nanoparticle is not necessarily completely metallic or even primarily metallic. In some embodiments, a metallic nanoparticle has a non-metallic core with a metallic shell surrounding the non-metallic core. The core may be any size relative to the size of the metallic shell. For example, the core may have any diameter relative to the thickness of the metallic shell. Additionally, the metallic shell may cover the entire outer surface of the core or, in other embodiment, only a portion of the outer surface of the core. For example, the metallic shell may cover at least 5% of the outer surface of the core. In another embodiment, the metallic shell covers at least 20% of the outer surface of the core. In another

[0020] Many industrial processes involve the drilling, or boring, of deep, subterranean holes into the earth. These holes are often referred to as boreholes. For example, in the oil and gas industry, holes more than a mile deep are often bored beneath the ground. This drilling process generally includes pumping various types of fluid that provide cooling for a drill bit, remove particles cut by the drill bit, and, in some cases, provide power to the drill bit. Fluid is also pumped into the borehole for other reasons, such as supporting the walls of the borehole and to stimulate production of the well. These fluids are commonly referred to as "drilling fluid," "drilling mud," "completion fluid," "work-over fluid," "packer fluid,"

fluid," "consolidation fluid," and so forth. As used herein, "drilling fluid" may refer to any type of fluid pumped into a borehole during drilling, production, maintenance, or restoration processes. In some embodiments, the drilling fluid is water, which may or may not contain additional chemical substances.

[0040] Figure 1 depicts a diagram of one embodiment of a system 100 for drilling a well using drilling fluid. The system 100 includes a derrick 102, a drill string 104, and a mud pump 106. The system 100 drills a borehole 108 into the ground.

[0043] In some embodiments, the mud pump 106 pumps drilling fluid 114 from the surface, through the drill string 104, to the bottom of the borehole 108. The mud pump 106 may be a reciprocating pump or other device capable of producing high pressure in the drilling fluid 114. The mud pump 106 may include a plurality of pistons/plungers to pump the drilling fluid 114, and may be sized relative to the size and depth of the borehole 108. The mud pump 106 may further include one or more dampeners to reduce vibration.

[0044] The drilling fluid 114 is pumped by the mud pump 106 through the hollow drill string 104 to the drill bit 110 at the bottom of the borehole 108. The drilling fluid 114 then flows upward in the annular space between the drill string 104 and the wall of the borehole 108, known as the annulus 112. The drilling fluid 114 exits the top of the annulus 112 and be recirculated through the mud pump 106, the drill string 104, the drill bit 110, and the annulus 112.

[0046] In one embodiment, the drilling fluid 114 includes a metallic nanoparticle composition. The metallic nanoparticle composition may reduce the activity of or kill at least a portion of SRB in the drilling fluid 114. As a result, production of corrosive material in the drilling fluid 114 may be reduced. In a specific embodiment, the metallic nanoparticles include silver nanoparticles. Although the following description refers to silver

nanoparticles, the description provided may be applicable to nanoparticles that are formed by, or include, other metals or metallic characteristics. The silver nanoparticles may be present in the drilling fluid 114 in any number of concentration levels. As one example, the silver nanoparticles may be present in the drilling fluid 114 in a concentration of between about fifty parts per billion and five parts per million. In another example, the silver nanoparticles may be present in the drilling fluid 114 in a concentration of up to about 100 parts per million. In another example, the silver nanoparticles may be present in the drilling fluid 114 in a concentration of down to about one part per billion. The concentration level used within a particular application may depend on the type of industrial application for which the silver nanoparticle composition is used. Additionally, other concentration ranges may be applicable for nanoparticles which include metals other than silver.

[0047] In some embodiments, the drilling fluid 114 is allowed to settle in a mud pit 116 before recirculation to allow cuttings to settle out of the drilling fluid 114. The drilling fluid 114 also may be monitored or modified before being recirculated. For conventional biocide additives, this settling process may result in settling of the biocide along with the cuttings, chemical transformation and degradation, or volatilization to the atmosphere. The concentration of the biocide in the drilling fluid 114 may, therefore, be reduced, along with efficacy. In addition, conventional biocides may be degraded or consumed relatively quickly while in use, thus requiring addition of more biocide to the drilling fluid 114 over a relatively short time.

[0048] In some embodiments, silver nanoparticle compositions have physical characteristics that cause them to remain in suspension while the drilling fluid 114 rests in the mud pit 116. The small size of the nanoparticles, in conjunction with the structure of the nanoparticles and various fundamental forces, may cause the nanoparticles to remain suspended and, consequently, not settle in the mud pit 116, or to settle relatively slowly and to retain its biocidal properties. As a result, a biocide including a silver nanoparticle

composition or a solution which includes essentially only the silver nanoparticle material may maintain concentration and efficacy longer than other existing biocides.

[0049] The silver nanoparticles may be stable in the composition without surfactants. Therefore, the drilling fluid 114 may be free of surfactants. However, other embodiments may include surfactants.

[0050] The silver nanoparticle composition, in some embodiments, retains efficacy as a biocide longer and neutralizes more SRB than other conventional biocides used in drilling and other industrial applications. Efficacy may be aided by motion of the nanoparticles that may be caused by physical characteristics of the nanoparticles. The relatively small nanoparticles (relative to, for example, microparticles) may exhibit relatively high levels of Brownian motion. In some embodiments, the metallic nanoparticle composition includes metallic silver nanoparticles that are permanently, essentially permanently, or semipermanently bonded to structured water that utilize multiple modes of biocidal action to destroy bacteria (e.g., pathogens) catalytically or synergistically (i.e., using multiple modes of toxicity), without using up the embodied modes of action. Consequently, the silver nanoparticle compositions may retain their efficacy as a biocide longer than larger particles.

[0051] In certain embodiments, the biocidal additives for the drilling fluid 114 include no organic polymers. In other words, the drilling fluid 114 may contain exclusively inorganic biocides. The drilling fluid 114 may contain silver nanoparticles that substantially do not include organic matter. In one embodiment, the biocidal additives for the drilling fluid 114 may be primarily or exclusively a suspension of silver nanoparticles in water. In another embodiment, the biocidal additives for the drilling fluid 114 may be a suspension of silver nanoparticles in water combined with one or more additional substances. Embodiments of the silver nanoparticles are discussed in greater detail below in relation to Figure 4.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the biocidal additives for the drilling fluid 114 also may include hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The hydrogen peroxide may interact with the silver nanoparticles to enhance antimicrobial activity of the drilling fluid 114. In particular, the addition of hydrogen peroxide can counteract some or all of the effects of high salinity, which otherwise might negatively affect the effectiveness of a silver nanoparticle solution. In this way, it may be said that the hydrogen peroxide at least partially neutralizes the salinity. In some embodiments, the hydrogen peroxide acts as a biocide for anaerobic microbes. The hydrogen peroxide may constitute approximately 0.5% to 5.0% of the overall solution. Other embodiments may include more or less hydrogen peroxide. Other embodiments may be confined to a more narrow percentage range of the overall solution (e.g., between about 1.0-

embodiments, hydrogen peroxide is present together with the silver nanoparticle in the drilling fluid 114. This embodiment may utilize a range of silver nanoparticle concentrations, as explained above, and hydrogen peroxide concentrations in the range of about 500 parts per billion to about 100 parts per million.

[0053] Figure 2 shows one embodiment of a system 200 for hydraulic fracturing to stimulate oil and gas production. The system 200 includes a mud pump 106, drilling fluid 114, and a perforating gun 204. The system fractures rock around a portion of the borehole 108 to facilitate production of the well.

[0055] The perforating gun 204 is then removed from the borehole 108, and the borehole is filled with a fracturing fluid. The fracturing fluid may be similar, in some aspects, to the drilling fluid 114 used in drilling the borehole 108 or may be a specialized fracturing fluid which includes similar silver nanoparticle solution, as described above. The fracturing fluid is placed under pressure in the borehole 108 by the mud pump 106 or another pump or pressure generating device. The mud pump 106 may be the same pump used in the drilling process or may be a specialized fracturing pump.

[0058] In some embodiments described herein, the fracturing fluid used in the fracturing process includes silver nanoparticles in a structured water suspension. The silver nanoparticles may include the properties and characteristics described herein in relation to Figure 1 and elsewhere. In one embodiment, the silver nanoparticles are suspended in water which is added to the fracturing fluid. The silver nanoparticle suspension may act as an effective biocide with relatively low concentrations when compared to other biocides as described herein above. In some embodiments, the silver nanoparticle suspension will be present in concentrations in the ranges described previously. In some embodiments, the silver nanoparticle suspension will be present in the fracturing fluid together with hydrogen peroxide in the concentration ranges described previously.

[0059] In addition to the drilling and fracturing processes described above, a silver nanoparticle suspension may be used in other industrial applications. For example, a silver nanoparticle suspension may be used as a biocide in a similar manner in several other drilling processes, including but not limited to water injection to stimulate well production, reclamation of drilling fluid water, well servicing, and sour gas mitigation. Silver nanoparticle suspensions may be used as a biocide in a similar manner in other industrial applications, including, but not limited to, the following: fluid optimization; water disinfection; water purification; water treatment; water separation; produced water recovery and treatment; well conditioning; drilling fluid conditioner; drilling fluid mineral; drilling fluid friction reducer; cement conditioner; surface flood irrigation; mechanical vapor enhancement; contamination counteractive; rehabilitation/reclamation curative;

[0060] Other industrial applications in which silver nanoparticle suspensions may be used include, but are not limited to, the following: surfactant; ion exchange; electrodialysis (ED); electrodialysis reversal (EDR); capacitive deionization technology; electrochemical activation technology; electro-deionization; plant/vegetation nutrient; electromagnetic semiconductors. Silver nanoparticle solutions also may be used in processes of reduction in chloride and sulfide (H2S and HS"), nitrate, nitrite, and/or other ion concentrations. Silver nanoparticle solutions also may be used in processes of reduction in selenium, arsenic, copper and/or other metal concentrations. Silver nanoparticle solutions also may be used in processes of reduction in polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons and other organic compounds.

[0062] Other analyses, also using ASTM Standard Methods, demonstrate the ability of the silver nanoparticle solution to reduce sulfide concentrations. Results of these Sulfide Chemical Oxidation Tests are also included in Appendix A.

[0064] In general, embodiments of the metallic nanotechnology described herein, or equivalent metallic nanotechnology, include, but are not limited to, activities within the general fields of engineering, construction, operations, planning, designing, exploration, and production endeavors. Some example of potential activities within these fields include, but are not limited to, production, refining, manufacturing, treatment, chemical, petro-chemical, gas to liquids, geothermal, geotechnical, processing, pipelining, fluids, hydrocarbons, organic vapors, transportation, handling, seismic, geological, geophysical, technical, exploitation, engineering, sedimentary, magnetic, gravimetric, transference, conductivity, reservoirs, seabed, meteorological, environmental, mud pits, mud systems, mud fluids, mud products, mud additives, biocide replacements or additives, viscosity enhancement, optimization, recovery methodology, wellbore fluids, cementing fluids, slick-line fluids, hydraulic fracturing fluids, industrial water applications, gas or pressurized fracturing, work over fluids, cementing fluids, bore holes, circulation processes, connate water, formation water, interstitial water, mineral aggregates or organic matter, sulfur reducing bacteria, all other surface and subsurface bacteria known or unknown, produced water, settling pond fluids, reserve pit fluids, closed loop fluids, miscible fluids, water-flooding, water wells, disposal wells, fluid injections, input wells, outpost wells, flow treaters, enhanced recovery, salt water fluids, salt water disposal, hydrogen sulfide, dissolved gasses, carbon dioxides, gas injection, water-flood, tertiary methods employing chemicals, gases, heat, efficiency increases of resource recovery, pumpers, tanks consumables, cleaning, tank batteries, tank farms, tank storage, air drilling, air/gas lifts, swabbing, heater treating, hot oiling, acidizing, pigging, cleaning, casing, tubing"s, down-hole servicing, wire line, work over, and similar activities.

Additional examples include various activities related to the following: facilities, gathering facilities, water treatment systems, piping systems, pipelines, pump stations, lift stations, transfer stations, storage facilities, waste disposal facilities, accommodations, supply units,

[0067] Figure 4 shows a view of one embodiment of a silver nanoparticle 300. The silver nanoparticle 300 includes a surface 302 and an interior 304. The silver nanoparticle 300 may be included in a silver nanoparticle suspension.

[0068] The surface 302, in one embodiment, is silver oxide and part of a metallic shell. The surface 302 may have a metallic character. In some embodiments, the surface 302 has a covalent character. The interior 304 may be elemental silver. In other embodiments, the interior 304 (also referred to as the core) may be a non-metallic material. Polymers are examples of a non-metallic material that may be used to form the core of the silver nanoparticle 300. In other embodiments, the core may be any non-metallic material having organic or inorganic components. In other embodiments, the core includes a combination of metallic and non-metallic materials.

[0069] The silver nanoparticle 300 may have an exact or average diameter 306 that defines a size of the silver nanoparticle 300. In some embodiments, the diameter 306 or size of the silver nanoparticle is between about 0.002 micrometers and about 0.030 micrometers (i.e., 2-30 nanometers). The silver nanoparticles may have variable sizes with an average diameter of about 0.002-0.030 micrometers (i.e., 2-30 nanometers).

[0070] The interior 304, or core, of the silver nanoparticle 300 may be any size relative to the size of the metallic shell 302. For example, the core 304 may have any diameter 308 relative to the thickness 310 of the metallic shell 302. In some embodiments, the relationship between the size of the core 304 and the thickness of the metallic shell 302 contributes to the effectiveness of the silver nanoparticle 300 as a biocide.

[0072] The silver nanoparticle 300 may be one of a plurality of silver nanoparticles in a composition. The composition may be a composition of the silver nanoparticles in water. In some embodiments, a majority of the silver nanoparticles in the composition are between

about 0.002 micrometers and about 0.030 micrometers in diameter. In another embodiment, at least 75% of the silver nanoparticles in the composition are between about 0.002 micrometers and about 0.030 micrometers in diameter. In a further embodiment, at least 90% of the silver nanoparticles in the composition are between about 0.002 micrometers and about 0.030 micrometers in diameter. In some embodiments, at least 95% of the silver

nanoparticles in the composition are between about 0.002 micrometers and about 0.030 micrometers in diameter. In some embodiments of the composition, the silver nanoparticles average 0.0106 micrometers in diameter. As explained above, the silver nanoparticles may exhibit biocidal properties against SRB and/or other bacteria, either within a solution or as a dehydrated substance (e.g., powder).

[0073] Figure 5 is a flowchart diagram depicting one embodiment of a method 400 for using a silver nanoparticle suspension in a drilling application. The method 400 is in certain embodiments a method of use of the system and apparatus of Figures 1-3, and will be discussed with reference to those figures. Nevertheless, the method 400 may also be conducted independently thereof and is not intended to be limited specifically to the specific embodiments discussed above with respect to those figures. Also, although the following description primarily references drilling fluid and equipment, the same or similar operations may be implemented for fracturing fluid and equipment, or for other industrial fluid and associated equipment.

[0074] As shown in Figure 5, a silver nanoparticle suspension is provided 402. The suspension may be in the form of a drilling fluid 114 and may be provided 402 in a mud pit 116 or production water. The suspension may exhibit antimicrobial properties and be usable as a biocide.

[0075] A mud pump 106 for drilling mud (or another pump for fracturing fluid) may pump 404 the suspension into a borehole 108. In some embodiments, the suspension is pumped 404 into the borehole 108 through a drill string 104. In another embodiment, the suspension is pumped 404 directly into the borehole 108.

[0076] The suspension in the borehole 108 may be pressurized. Pressure may be applied 406 to the suspension by the mud pump 106 or by another device capable of applying pressure. In one embodiment, the applied pressure causes the suspension to circulate through the drill string 104 and back up through an annulus 112 between the borehole wall and the drill string 104. In another embodiment, the suspension is placed under a static pressure, such as in hydraulic fracturing.

[0077] In some embodiments, the suspension is removed and reclaimed 408 from the borehole. The suspension may be removed and reclaimed 408 as part of a drilling operation where the suspension flows out of the annulus 112 where it is captured and returned to the mud pit 116 for reuse. In another embodiment, the suspension may be pumped out of the borehole 108 and contained in a vessel (not shown) for future use or disposal.

[0078] Embodiments of the disclosure provide reduced human and environmental toxicity and increased safety in a biocide for use in industrial applications. A metallic suspension of silver nanoparticles may be used in place of other biocides or in applications where traditional biocides would be unsafe.

[0079] Also, for reference, certain embodiments of the silver nanoparticle solution described herein are distinguishable from other biocidal compositions. As one example, embodiments of the silver nanoparticle solution described herein may be used in a strict form which excludes other potential additives such as conventional toxics, polymers, fillers, coagulants, proppants, surfactants, organic biocides, and so forth. As an example, embodiments of the silver nanoparticle solution described herein may be implemented exclusive of organic constituents that would more readily degrade over time. As another example, embodiments of the silver nanoparticle solution described herein may be implemented which are effectively soluble, or the practical equivalent of a soluble solution. This contrasts with some conventional silver-based biocides which are formed as so-called microparticles or within concoctions of various materials that are relatively unstable within substantially insoluble metallic/particulate matrices. Other embodiments may exhibit other advantages and/or distinguishing features, which will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art in light of the description provided herein.

[0080] In some embodiments, the implementation of a metallic nanoparticle which includes a metallic shell surrounding a non-metallic core such as a polymer can provide much lower production costs than a metallic nanoparticle which includes a core of elemental silver or other metal. Some implementations also may achieve lower production costs utilizing a combination of metallic and non-metallic components within the core. In one embodiment, the core contains no more than about 5% metallic content. In another embodiment, the core contains no more than about 10% metallic content. In another embodiment, the core contains no more than about 25% metallic content. In another embodiment, the core contains no more than about 50% metallic content. Other embodiments may include other ratios of metallic and non-metallic content in the core.