In the 35 years since the EPA prepared the Research and Development Report entitled “Acute Toxicity of Eight Drilling Fluids to Mysid Shrimp (Mysidopsis bahia)” / EPA-600/3-84-067, there have been thousands of tests conducted incorporating these standard generic formulations. This allowed for comparison testing and for consistency and accuracy that continues today. Additionally, concepts derived from the use of this species and these generic formulations led to the development of further protocols to be used successfully offshore.

In the realm of onshore environmental research and toxicity testing, such generic drilling fluid formulations have not had a coordinated effort. There are many types of drilling fluids that can be used onshore, in similar fashion as offshore, but additional elements such as chlorides and electrical conductivity will also be an important consideration when involving soil science. Lessons from the Eight Drilling Fluids have been incorporated into in the development and amendment of protocols throughout industry workgroups. Factors important for development include the assessment of discriminatory power, practicality, repeatability, ecological relevance, and ranking of known substances in order of environmental impacts. These tools can be beneficial to the growth of a coordinated effort.

Primary Author / Conference Presenter:
Patrick Tyczynski
M-I SWACO, a Schlumberger Company
Houston, Texas, USA

Co-Author:
John Candler, M-I SWACO, a Schlumberger Company, Houston, TX