Products and Additives
Optimize Drilling With Our Advanced Solutions
Shale inhibition requirements vary by the properties of the formation. Mixed clay layers can respond to water in different ways.


Systems
Water-Based Mud Additives
Explore our range of water-based mud additives designed for optimal performance.
From filtration control to shale inhibitors, AES Fluids offers solutions to enhance drilling efficiency and stability.
Key attributes

Enhanced lubrication

Superior filtration control

Environmental compliance
Shale Inhibitors
Key Benefits
Shale inhibition requirements vary by the properties of the formation. Mixed clay layers can respond to water in different ways.
Enhanced lubrication
Reduced Drilling Fluid Dilution
Improved Drilling Efficiency
Cost Savings
Eco-Friendly Options
Shale Inhibitors
Applications
Shale inhibition requirements vary by the properties of the formation. Mixed clay layers can respond to water in different ways.
Water-Sensitive Formations
Horizontal and Directional Drilling
High-Temperature, High-Pressure (HTHP) Environments
Cost Savings
Water-Based Mud Systems
AES Vert Systems
Technical Specifications
Shale inhibitors are chemical additives designed to stabilize reactive shales and clays during drilling. Their composition varies based on the formulation but typically includes:
Composition
Base: Advanced water-based formulation.
Additives

Biodegradable polymers for enhanced viscosity and fluid loss control.

Shale stabilizers to maintain wellbore integrity.

pH buffers for chemical stability.

Lubricants to reduce torque and drag.

Non-toxic defoamers for surface-level operations.
Recommended Operating Conditions
Temperature Range: Up to 350°F (175°C) for optimal performance..
Pressure Conditions: Effective under both normal and high-pressure environments.
Mud Weight: Adjustable between 8.5 to 16.0 ppg (1.02 to 1.92 SG) based on well requirements.
pH Range: Maintained between 9.0 to 10.5 for optimal stability.
Compliance with industry standards
Shale inhibitors should comply with established industry standards to ensure safety, environmental protection, and performance reliability:
- ISO Standards: ISO 13503-1, ISO 9001
- API Standards: API RP 13B, API RP 13C
- Environmental Compliance
- Health and Safety & Performance Standards
AES Vert Systems
Product Data Library
There are a number of shale inhibitor additives depending on the drilling scenario. Contact your AES Drilling Fluids Account Manager to
review product details for your application.
| Product | Description | Product Data Sheet | Product Data Sheet Link | Associated Mud System(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BRINEX | Lubricant for brine-based systems | BRINEX Product Bulletin | Download PDF | |
| ENERLUBE | Lubricant for water-based drilling fluids | ENERLUBE Product Bulletin | Download PDF | |
| BRINEX EP | Lubricant for brine systems | BRINEX EP Product Bulletin | Download PDF | |
| ENERLUBE LITE | Lubricant for the EnerLITE Direct Emulsion System | ENERLUBE LITE Product Bulletin | Download PDF | |
| AES CLAYSHIELD II | Low molecular weight polyamine shale inhibitor | AES CLAYSHIELD II Product Bulletin | Download PDF | WBM |
| ENERPLUS | Encapsulating liquid PHPA | ENERPLUS Product Bulletin | Download PDF | WBM |
| KCL SUBSTITUTE | Clay hydration inhibitor | KCL SUBSTITUTE Product Bulletin | Download PDF | WBM |
| PXL BLUE | Low molecular weight polyacrylamide | PXL BLUE Product Bulletin | Download PDF | WBM |
| POLYPRO G | Glycol blend | POLYPRO G Product Bulletin | Download PDF | WBM |
Innovative Solutions to Complement Your Drilling Program
Innovative Solutions
to Complement Your Drilling Program
Featured Products/Additives

Shale Inhibitors
Shale inhibition requirements vary by the properties of the formation. Mixed clay layers can respond to water in different ways.

Corrosion Inhibitors
Whether it’s minimizing dissolved oxygen through our CAT 752 OS, scavenging dangers hydrogen sulfide through WILDCAT 601TZ, or a comprehensive treatment.

Filtration Control
Water-based muds typically have higher fluid loss compared to invert emulsion. Quality additives such as our ES-CONTROL and ENERPAC are designed to perform at low concentrations.

Lubricants
Torque and drag limit rate of penetration and compromise directional control. From our signature ENERLUBE lubricant to our latest options, BRINEX or ENERLUBE LITE.
Innovative Solutions to Complement Your Drilling Program
Innovative Solutions
to Complement Your Drilling Program
Featured Products/Additives

Shale Inhibitors
Shale inhibition requirements vary by the properties of the formation. Mixed clay layers can respond to water in different ways.

Corrosion Inhibitors
Whether it’s minimizing dissolved oxygen through our CAT 752 OS, scavenging dangers hydrogen sulfide through WILDCAT 601TZ, or a comprehensive treatment.

Filtration Control
Water-based muds typically have higher fluid loss compared to invert emulsion. Quality additives such as our ES-CONTROL and ENERPAC are designed to perform at low concentrations.

Lubricants
Torque and drag limit rate of penetration and compromise directional control. From our signature ENERLUBE lubricant to our latest options, BRINEX or ENERLUBE LITE.