Technical Bulletin

Description : HEC (hydroxyethyl cellulose) is a high-molecular-weight,high-quality, modified, structural polysaccharide. Nonionic,HEC is suited for viscosifying brines.

Application and Use :

Commonly used as a brine viscosifier for completion and workover fluids where suspension (gelation) character is less important, HEC functions in various brines, including calcium, zinc chlorides, bromides, and monovalent analogues.HEC is used for gravel-packing, spacers, and pills. The
polymer exhibits negligible effects on producing formations, and various chemical agents can break the polymeric structure to facilitate complete removal.

HEC is added to completion fluids at levels between0.2 to 2 lb/bbl (0.57 to 5.7 kg/m3), depending on the viscosity required and the composition of the base liquid. Maximum yield occurs between pH 7 and 9. HEC is stable at temperatures up to 225°F (107°C).

Advantages :

• Readily dispersible and produces rapid viscosity.
• Develops high viscosity at moderately low concentrations
• Does not require high shear and has low tendency to fisheye
• Polymeric structure readily cleaved by various reagents

Product Label