Patent · US Active

System and method for hydraulic fracturing with nanoparticles

US10060244B2 · kind B2 · utility

8Cited by
5References
20Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 24, 2015
Grant dateAug 28, 2018
Priority date—
Expiry dateFeb 24, 2035

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
  • CPC primaryC09K2208/28
  • WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
  • WIPO sectorChemistry

Abstract

A method for controlling fluid loss into the pores of an underground formation during fracturing operations is provided. Nanoparticles are added to the fracturing fluid to plug the pore throats of pores in the underground formation. As a result, the fracturing fluid is inhibited from entering the pores. By minimizing fluid loss, higher fracturing fluid pressures are maintained, thereby resulting in more extensive fracture networks. Additionally, nanoparticles minimize the interaction between the fracturing fluid and the formation, especially in water sensitive formations. As a result, the nanoparticles help maintain the integrity and conductivity of the generated, propped fractures.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.