This review paper focuses on the use of local additives in water-based drilling mud to reduce environmental impact and improve drilling operations. Drilling mud plays a crucial role in drilling operations by acting as a coolant, carrying drilled particles, stabilizing the wellbore, and preventing wellbore issues. However, poorly formulated drilling mud can lead to drilling difficulties and environmental pollution. Therefore, the exploration of organic-based drilling mud additives, sourced locally in Nigeria, is discussed in this paper.it highlights the potential of transforming organic waste materials, such as rice husk, cassava, corn cobs, and more, into usable products for drilling mud. By utilizing these locally sourced organic materials, the environmental impact of drilling waste can be minimized. The importance of waste management in the oil and gas industry is emphasized, as it is crucial for sustainable drilling practices. The paper further discusses various studies and experiments conducted on the use of local polymers and natural materials as substitutes for imported additives in water-based drilling mud. These materials include cassava starches, agro-waste materials, eco-friendly drilling fluid additives, and various plant-based substances. The performance and effectiveness of these materials are evaluated in terms of viscosity control and fluid loss prevention. The results indicate that many of these local polymers and natural materials can be viable and have shown positive results in terms of improving the rheological and filtration characteristics of the mud, reducing fluid loss, and enhancing overall mud qualities. Earlier studies on the use of agro-waste products as additives in drilling fluids are reviewed in this paper. These studies examine the properties affected by local materials, the type of mud used, and the findings of each study. The economic analysis of using agro-waste materials as drilling additives is also discussed. The conclusion highlights the availability and affordability of agricultural waste materials as potential substitutes for traditional drilling additives, which can help reduce drilling costs. The paper also provides recommendations for future research in this area.
Key words: Drilling Fluid, Additives, Agricultural Waste, Waste Management, Fluid Loss, Wellbore Stability
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