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Fuzzy-Ball Fluids: Fundamentals, Mechanisms, and Prospects for Clean Energy and Oilfield Applications

Author

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  • Long Jin

    (College of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum (Beijing), Beijing 102249, China)

  • Chinedu J. Okere

    (College of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum (Beijing), Beijing 102249, China
    Bob L. Herd Department of Petroleum Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA)

  • Qin Guo

    (College of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum (Beijing), Beijing 102249, China)

  • Lihui Zheng

    (College of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum (Beijing), Beijing 102249, China)

Abstract

Fuzzy-ball fluids have emerged as a novel class of chemical sealaplugging materials with significant potential for enhancing both traditional oilfield operations and clean energy technologies. They are characterized by unique viscoelastic properties, plugging, self-adapting capabilities, and the ability to regulate multi-phase fluid flow under extreme subsurface conditions. In oilfield applications, fuzzy-ball fluids offer solutions for drilling, hydraulic fracturing, workover operations, and enhanced oil recovery in shallow, deep, and offshore reservoirs. In clean energy fields such as hydrogen storage, carbon capture, utilization, and storage, and geothermal energy, they show promise in improving energy efficiency, storage security, and environmental sustainability. This review explores the fundamental principles and mechanisms behind fuzzy-ball fluids, examines their field applications in the oil and gas industry, and investigates their potential in emerging clean energy technologies. This study also identifies key challenges, including material stability, economic viability, and environmental impact, which must be addressed to ensure the successful deployment of fuzzy-ball fluids. Furthermore, we outline future research directions, emphasizing material optimization, large-scale field trials, environmental impact assessments, and interdisciplinary collaboration to accelerate the commercialization of fuzzy-ball fluid technologies. By addressing these challenges, fuzzy-ball fluids could play a transformative role in both conventional and clean energy fields, contributing to sustainable and efficient energy solutions.

Suggested Citation

  • Long Jin & Chinedu J. Okere & Qin Guo & Lihui Zheng, 2025. "Fuzzy-Ball Fluids: Fundamentals, Mechanisms, and Prospects for Clean Energy and Oilfield Applications," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(7), pages 1-21, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:7:p:1592-:d:1618213
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    References listed on IDEAS

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