ACTE15: 3M debuts latest glass bubbles additive

New 3M Glass Bubbles HGS4K28 developed to improve oil and gas well productivity in depleted zones and weaker formations

3M Advanced Materials Division debuted its newest 3M Glass Bubbles product currently under development at the Society of Petroleum Engineers Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition. The new HGS4K28 is a high-strength, low-density additive designed to afford density reduction capabilities.

The use of HGS4K28 as a density reducing agent for completion, work-over and cement slurries offers the potential for improved well integrity, reduced non-productive time and increased well productivity when drilling in highly depleted zones and weaker formations, as it may help minimize or eliminate problems associated with fluid loss, lost circulation and formation damage.

Typical Properties (not for specification purposes)

Glass Bubbles HGS4K28 and HGS19K46 complement 3M’s Glass Bubbles portfolio, which includes a variety of strengths, densities and sizes. 3M’s portfolio of hollow glass microspheres are used as an additive for a number of applications in the oil and gas industry, as well as automotive, aerospace, rubber and plastics, paints and coatings, construction materials, and electronics industries.

The technology behind Glass Bubbles, first introduced in 1968, has become widely accepted for its performance and processing enhancements across a number of industries. 3M Glass Bubble production locations are in the US, Korea, France and Brazil.

Glass Bubbles HGS4K28 will be commercially available later 2015, with sample and field trial quantities available for order beginning 1 October, 2015.