NUMERICAL MODELING AND STATISTICAL EVALUATION OF THE RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF CLAY HYDRODISPERSIONS FROM KAZAKHSTAN DEPOSITS

Abstract

In this study, numerical modeling and statistical analysis were applied to achieve a deeper understanding of the rheological properties of clay hydrodispersions. The work focuses on their quantitative characterization, comprehensive evaluation of structural organization, and determination of the effects of concentration and polymer modification. The results demonstrate that the Herschel–Bulkley model provides a high level of accuracy in describing the flow curves of dispersed systems (R² > 0.9), confirming its effectiveness for complex structured systems.

Using clays from the Tagan deposit as an example, it was found that increasing concentration plays a decisive role in the formation of a spatial structural network. In particular, the dependence of the yield stress following τ₀ ∝ C²·²⁶ indicates the formation of a percolation structure due to cooperative interactions between particles. In contrast, for the Keles, Kyzylorda, and Urangai deposits, the dependence of rheological properties on concentration is non-monotonic, reflecting a multifactorial nature governed by mineral composition and the internal structure of the dispersed system.

In addition, it was established that polymer modification significantly alters the rheological behavior of the systems. The addition of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) leads to the formation of a pseudoplastic flow regime accompanied by a decrease in structural strength, whereas the use of hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) results in system stabilization and a flow behavior index approaching unity, indicating a reduction in structural reorganization processes.

Thus, the obtained results provide a scientific basis for the targeted regulation of the structural and rheological properties of clay hydrodispersions and enable their effective application in drilling fluids, sorbents, and construction materials.