Fracturing utilizing an air/fuel mixture
US10865630B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 27, 2019 |
| Grant date | Dec 15, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 27, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B43/248
- WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A system of producing subterranean fractures in geologic formations for the extraction of hydrocarbons includes flowing an air and fuel mixture into a well hole. The well hole may then be sealed with a packer plug creating a compression chamber with the air and fuel mixture. A liquid, such as water, may be pumped into the well hole to create pressure in the compression chamber. The build-up of pressure eventually causes auto-ignition of the air and fuel mixture which fractures the formation. The water may then rush into the compression chamber which thermally shocks the area causing additional fractures. The water may vaporize to steam and thoroughly disinfect the well hole eliminating the need for added biocides.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.