Drilling fluid has contributed to the safe, efficient and smooth implementation of drilling engineering for over a century. In recent years, however, oil and gas reserves have been discovered in difficult-to-access and extreme environments such as the deep ocean. Consequently, geological and ground conditions have become increasingly complex, posing a challenge to resource exploration and development. Bionics, the imitation of characteristics, structures, functions and principles from nature, offers a new approach to drilling fluid technology. Bionics are already an important part of drilling in unconventional and complex oil and gas wells, both in China, and in at least 12 countries. Theories and Technologies of Bionic Drilling Fluids presents the development and use of bionics in drilling fluids. The book considers technical challenges, and the upgrading of existing drilling fluid technology. It argues for the use of bionics in the development of the petroleum industry alongside environmental protection. In response to the increasing need for novel technologies in and approaches to drilling, the title presents insights into how nature-inspired technologies can be successfully developed, helping researchers and technicians harness the power of bionics to solve practical challenges in drilling. This volume presents over a decade’s original research into bionic drilling fluids, and offers scientists and engineers a comprehensive handbook on the theory and technology of bionic drilling fluid. Presents the development and use of bionics in drilling fluidsHighlights the environmental aspects of bionics in drilling fluidsOffers a concise and clear guide to new theories and technologies in bionic drilling fluidsCombines over a decade's original research with practical experience in petroleum extraction and developmentProvides efficient and low-cost technical means for solving drilling fluid-related technical problemsPresents techniques already used by over 35 oil and gas fields, and in 12 countries around the world