Fused Nanocomposite Claddings for Oil and Energy Applications

Oil and gas exploration and extraction operations are occurring in harsher, deeper, hotter, and more corrosive environments than ever before; yet, most current materials and coatings are very limited in their ability to survive in deep well environments, and under the strains imposed in long, directional drill trains (which may go through 7,000 ft of water and then go an additional 15,000 ft). Fusion bonded epoxy, hard chrome, and tungsten carbide coatings do not survive under these conditions. This project will mate and optimize nano-structured cermet coating formulations using advanced fabrication technologies, such as high density infrared (HDIR) processing, to produce low cost, corrosion- and wear-resistant coatings for use in oil and gas exploration and delivery equipment. Phase I will involve the tailoring and optimization of nano-engineered cermet cladding materials for the HDIR and other application processes, and verify suitability for use through mechanical, wear, and accelerated corrosion testing. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new cladding materials should solve many wear and corrosion problems in oil exploration, infrastructure corrosion, and the rebuilding of worn components