1. n. [Drilling Fluids]

A generic name for low molecular weight, water-soluble polymers and oligomers containing a large number of hydroxyl groups. Specific examples include glycols, polyglycols and polyglycerols. Polyols are used in water-base fluids as shale inhibitors and gas hydrate inhibitors.

See: gas hydrate,  glycol,  oligomer,  polyalkalene glycol,  polyglycerol,  polymer