The project aims to establish a long-term academia–industry partnership that combines complementary expertise, infrastructure, and multidisciplinary knowledge to accelerate the development and commercialization of drilling fluid technologies. It strengthens collaboration between large industry, SMEs, and a leading academic institution while promoting knowledge transfer, gender equality, and the development of specialized expertise within Cyprus' RTDI system. At the same time, it delivers cutting-edge research on sustainable water-based fluids using innovative methods to optimize waste utilization, support circular economy goals, and advance the technology from TRL4 to TRL7 for industrial applications.
TO1
Develop a complete water-based drilling fluid (WBF) system using waste materials that meets API standards for viscosity and filtration control while maintaining strong thermal stability and performance under high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) drilling conditions.
TO2
Modify thermally activated K⁺-rich bentonite with different polymer additives (anionic, cationic, and nonionic) to improve swelling capacity, water adsorption, and colloidal behavior, enhancing viscosity control and drilling fluid performance.
TO3
Apply nanotechnology through the Sol-Gel method to produce composite nano-bentonite materials with increased surface area and improved colloidal properties for advanced drilling fluid applications.
SO1
Align the project with the European Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan by embedding sustainability into drilling fluid development, while advancing the technology from TRL4 to TRL7 to enable near-market readiness in the energy sector.
SO2
Develop a fully functional water-based drilling fluid (WBF) system from Cypriot bentonites that meets API standards, ensuring strong rheological performance, filtration control, and stability under high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) and thermal aging conditions.
SO3
Critically evaluate and compare all material modification routes (chemical activation, thermal treatment, and Sol-Gel nanotechnology) to identify the most effective and scalable approach for industrial upscaling and commercialization.