Product Bulletin

CAUSTILIGT CAUSTILIG causticized lignite controls rheology and reduces fluid loss,
extends temperature limits, emulsifies oil, reduces flocculation and
stabilizes water-base drilling fluids. In solution, it has an alkaline
pH, therefore it does not require large caustic additions to maintain
a stable pH. CAUSTILIG is a partially soluble additive that provides
thin, low-permeability filter cakes accompanied by low fluid loss.
It is especially effective in high-temperature applications and in
dispersed systems as a synergistic additive with lignosulfonates.
It can be used in virtually any water-base fluid.

Physical appearance . . . . . . . . . . . . Black powder

TYPICAL PHYSICAL Specific gravity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.6 – 1.8
PROPERTIES pH (1% solution) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 – 10
Bulk density . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 lb/ft3 (833 kg/m3)
Typical grind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 – 95% < 20 mesh

CAUSTILIG may be used for rheology Normal treatments of CAUSTILIG

APPLICATIONS and filtration control in all water- range from 1 to 10 lb/bbl (2.85 to
base muds and for helping maintain 28.5 kg/m3). In high-salinity systems,
a constant pH. It is especially effec- it is preferable to premix the CAUSTILIG
tive at stabilizing the properties of in freshwater to enhance dispersibil-
muds exposed to high temperatures ity, then add the premix to the active
and contaminants such as calcium. system. CAUSTILIG is most effective in
CAUSTILIG does not require additional mud systems with an alkaline pH in
treatments with caustic soda. the range of 9 to 11.
 • Provides improved filtration control.
ADVANTAGES • Reduces viscosity and gel strengths.
• Maintains a more constant pH and
reduces treatments of caustic soda.
• Significantly extends the tempera-
ture stability of water-base fluids.
• Resists the effects of contamination.
• Improves filter cake quality
by reducing its thickness
and permeability.
• Reduces wall-sticking tendencies.
• Stabilizes rheological properties.
• Compatible with a wide range of
water-base systems.
• Contains fewer heavy metals than
other deflocculants.

• Less effective at pH levels below 9.5.

LIMITATIONS

Bioassay information is available and observing the precautions as

TOXICITY upon request. described on the Transportation and
AND HANDLING Handle as an industrial chemical, Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
wearing protective equipment

CAUSTILIG is packaged in 50-lb

PACKAGING (22.7-kg), multi-wall, paper sacks.
AND STORAGE Store in a dry location away from
sources of heat or ignition, and
minimize dust.

This material is supplied solely for informational purposes and M-I Drilling Fluids L.L.C.
makes no guarantees or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the accu-
racy or use of this data. All product warranties and guarantees shall be governed by the
Standard Terms of Sale.
P.O. Box 721110
Houston, Texas 77272-1110
Tel: 281·561·1300
Fax: 281·561·7240
©1996 M-I Drilling Fluids L.L.C. All rights reserved.
® CAUSTILIG is a registered trademark of M-I Drilling Fluids L.L.C. http://www.midf.com
MI-10301 1.5M 1/97 Litho in U.S.A. E-mail: mimud@midfre.com