The use of electro-osmosis will be investigated to reduce bit balling oil well drilling. Bit balling is a major problem when drilling in soft rocks, since the soft rocks or clay are sticky, clog the bit, and reduce the rate of penetration. Present means of reducing bit balling, by the use of oil-based or other muds, are becoming increasingly environmental unsatisfactory. Electro- osmosis, the application of an electrical current across the bit- clay interface, liberates water and reduces the tendency of the drilled cuttings to stick to the bit.
