Isabel O. Albino-GutierrezNicómedes Saavedra-ArancibiaHéctor F. Durán-CalvettyMirna VillegasIrma C. Ajhuacho-Lopez2026-03-222026-03-22202610.71112/433cb916https://doi.org/10.71112/433cb916https://andeanlibrary.org/handle/123456789/80045This study experimentally evaluates the performance of saponins extracted from Agave mapisaga as a natural biosurfactant, assessed as a fluid-loss control and rheology-modifying additive in water-based drilling fluids, through direct comparison with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). The methodology included extraction and purification of the material, formulation of drilling fluids at equivalent concentrations (0,25 lb/bbl), and evaluation according to API RP 13B-1 procedures. Under standard conditions, saponins increased yield point by 18% (65 vs. 55 lb/100 ft²), indicating improved solids suspension capacity, and exhibited slightly higher API fluid loss than CMC (3,4 vs. 3,1 mL; +9,7%). Under thermal evaluation at 350°F, fluid loss with saponins increased by 24% (3,4→4,2 mL), whereas CMC increased by 61% (3,1→5,0 mL). The results indicate that saponins are technically competitive and show greater thermal stability where fluid-loss control and solids suspension are critical.Drilling fluidAgaveExtraction (chemistry)Suspension (topology)Freezing pointChromatographyYield (engineering)ChemistryThermal stabilityarticle