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Abstract

A well drilling fluid additive for viscosifying and controlling filtration or water loss from the fluid matrix is comprised of ground durum derived from the outer portion of the endosperm of the durum kernel. This product is very high in protein and polysaccharides, in addition to starch, which not only results in excellent viscosity and filtration control characteristics, but also in ability to maintain such characteristics in high temperature and pressure environments. It is equally effective in mineral-contaminated water, salt water, and fresh water, and it eliminates the necessity of flocculating or expanding clays in drilling fluid matrices for most normal oil well drilling applications. In normal use, this additive is mixed with the drilling fluid at a cool temperature in order to achieve maximum uniform dispersion. It is then circulated into the well where subsurface formation temperatures heat the fluid to at least 175.degree. to 180.degree. F., whereupon it 'yields' or thickens into a very viscous fluid.

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First Claim