Abstract
Drilling fluids play a crucial role in well construction. To improve their properties, various chemical additives are introduced into drilling fluids to regulate the drilling process based on the geological and geotechnical conditions of the wellbore, while also minimizing negative impacts on the atmosphere, soil, and groundwater. These additives may include chemical reagents, industrial process by-products, and other materials. Experience shows that the use of plant-based chemical reagents is gaining increasing attention, as their application in drilling operations has proven to be more efficient from both economic and environmental perspectives. In order to evaluate their technological effectiveness in terms of accident prevention and increased drilling rates, additional research is necessary. This study examines a water-based drilling fluid formulated with a modified powdered reagent (PR) derived from saponified cottonseed oil pitch. The saponification process is carried out using caustic soda (NaOH) mixed with water at a temperature of 100-110 °C, which ensures a maximum saponification rate of up to 92%. The article presents experimental results on the investigation of the properties of the water-based drilling fluid incorporating the modified powdered reagent. The use of a water-soluble powdered reagent offers broad prospects for its application as an environmentally friendly alternative. Accordingly, the relevance of this research is evident, as it facilitates the development of environmentally safe chemical reagents from vegetable oil waste. These reagents are intended for regulating the viscosity and thixotropic structure of drilling fluids, as well as for reducing filtration (fluid loss). The production of multifunctional powdered reagents based on locally available resources can significantly reduce state expenditures associated with the procurement of such materials. Keywords: drilling; drilling fluid; powdered reagent; rheological properties; modified cottonseed oil pitch.