BORE-TROL

Cost effective
Shale stabilizer
Mud conditioner
Borehole lubricant
BORE-TROL is a drilling fluid additive developed by Messina Inc. to function primarily as a shale stabilizer in
water base fluids. However, in addition to its outstanding performance as a shale stabilizer, BORE-TROL
functions as a versatile mud conditioner. The product is a multi-purpose drilling fluid additive which contributes
to the stability of both the drilling fluid and the hole.
BORE-TROL Features
Stabilizes shale formations
Inhibits the dispersion of drilling solids
Controls high temperature gellation
Controls high temperature fluid loss
Produces a thin, tough wall cake
Reduces torque and drag
Minimizes differential sticking
Can reduce consumption of other mud chemicals
BORE-TROL is a combination of chemically modified hydrocarbons that are partially soluble in fresh water, sea
water, and brines. The insoluble portions are completely and readily dispersible in these same fluids. The
solubility/dispersibility characteristics are unique and vital to the performance of BORE-TROL and, in fact, to
any similar product intended for shale control.
BORE-TROL Shale Stabilization
BORE-TROL stabilizes drilled shale formations by both chemical and physical action. Molecules of the water
soluble portion of the product chemicals bind themselves to the broken edges of the clays or shales, inhibiting
fluid entry into microfractures and reducing the possibly of shale sloughing. This same chemical effect helps
prevent the dispersion of shale cuttings into the mud, thus contributing to mud stability.
The water dispersible (insoluble) fraction of BORE-TROL has a thermal softening point of 250-300F (121149C) which allows the particles to soften at normal bottom-hole temperatures. By softening at these
moderate temperatures, BORE-TROL rapidly forms a thin, tough, water resistant layer on the borehole face
and is extruded into exposed edges of shale beds, sealing them off to water wetting, thereby minimizing
sloughing. This coating effect also retards the dispersion of shale cuttings into the mud.
BORE-TROL Mud Conditioning
In addition to providing outstanding shale control, BORE-TROL contributes to overall mud
conditioning. Though it should not be used to the exclusion of other products normally used to provide good
fluid properties, BORE-TROL can reduce the amounts of these other products necessary to achieve good
properties.
The inhibiting effect on the dispersion of shale cuttings has been described. In the absence of such inhibition,
the drilling of soft, mud-making shales can often make the control of mud properties impossible. Additionally,
tests have shown that BORE-TROL actually helps control viscosities of mud exposed to high temperatures.
The plastering effect of BORE-TROL in the well bore produces a thin, tough wall cake. This reduces fluid
loss, particularly high temperature fluid loss, and helps minimize the possibility of differential sticking. A
concurrent benefit of this plastering effect is a reduction of torgue and drag on the drill string, helping to
prevent differential sticking.
How to Use BORE-TROL
BORE-TROL should be added to the mud system before a shale section is drilled to prevent swelling and

heaving. It is more difficult to stop sloughing shale once it begins than it is to prevent it. BORE-TROL
treatment levels will vary from 2-8 ppb depending on the expected severity of heaving shale, temperature,
and/or torque and drag.

2-4 ppb for hole stabilization and prevention of shale sloughing

4-8 ppb for cleaning or maintaining a hole where shale sloughing has occurred
2-6 ppb for reduction of torque and drag
4-6 ppb for control of high temperature fluid loss
2-6 ppb for control of static gellation due to high temperatures and lack of fluid movement

The concentration of BORE-TROL should be maintained with daily treatments since the product is consumed
during drilling by reaction with the well bore and drilled cuttings.
Field Results
BORE-TROL has been field proven by a number of major operators and independents on the Texas and
Louisiana Gulf Coast and overseas.
A major operator drilling development wells from an offshore platform off South Louisiana had experienced
high torque and drag, tight hole and fill on trips when drilling between 6000-10,000 feet. On subsequent wells
the operator pretreated the system with 3 ppb BORE-TROL prior to 6000 feet and maintained small daily
treatments. These wells were drilled to T.D. with no problems.
In South Texas an independent operator was experiencing high torque and drag through Anahuac shale
between 6000-9000 feet. Drag became so high that the operator was unable to come out of the hole. The
system was treated with 6 ppb BORE-TROL followed by daily maintenance treatments. Torque and drag were
reduced to within acceptable limits and the operator was able to complete the well with no further problems.
Packaging
Messina quality is not limited to the products and services we provide. We follow through in our product
packaging. BORE-TROL is packaged in 50 lb net multi wall bags with polyethylene liner to keep out unwanted
moisture. Our rigid specifications for packaging can also be found in the pallets we use and the way each unit
is shrink wrapped and strapped for shipment. Messinas special pallets are all export-quality hardwood wing
type.
Availability
BORE-TROL is available from local Messina warehouses and through our sales offices and distributors around
the world. BORE-TROL is a trademark of Messina.