2025 GCAGS Journal, Vol. 14
TITLE
Maximizing Value from Drill Cuttings: A Case Study in the Eagle Ford Using Robotic XRF Logging
AUTHOR(S)
David Tonner and Andreina Liborius
ABSTRACT
Drill cuttings, often overlooked for their potential value, are a free byproduct of drilling operations. This case study unveils a series of cutting-edge, innovative techniques that extract maximum value from drill cuttings in the Eagle Ford Shale of South Texas. These techniques, developed to tackle the area's renowned geological complexity, with lateral facies changes and subseismic scale faulting, are a significant leap forward in the industry. These conditions present significant challenges for standard measurement while drilling (MWD) and gamma-ray (GR) tools, which often fall short of sufficient information for decision-making. Whereas complex logging while drilling (LWD) tools are helpful, they come at a high cost and carry significant risks.
By employing an innovative automated sampling system with quantitative X–ray fluorescence (XRF) and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), we can analyze 11 major oxides and 33 trace elements. This cutting-edge process generates a surface GR from uranium, potassium, and thorium summation. This surface GR measurement is a promising, low-cost, high-tech alternative to traditional tools. In a study spanning over two years using 80 wells, we introduced robotics for automated sample collection, which significantly lowered health, safety, and environmental (HSE) risks, improved sample collection frequency, reduced human error, and allowed personnel to focus on value-added tasks. This approach mitigated MWD tool failures and significantly enhanced geosteering operations, optimizing well placement and increasing reservoir contact. The benefits of these new techniques are not just theoretical but have been proven in practice, offering a promising future for drilling efficiency and resource utilization.
PAGE(S)
59-75
DOI
https://doi.org/10.62371/HGGM6684
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