Method for selectively plugging a zone having varying permeabilities with a temperature activated gel
US4940091A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 3, 1989 |
| Grant date | Jul 10, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 3, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B43/24
- WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A process for closing pores in a heated steam swept zone of a formation having zones of varying permeabilities where a temperature activated aqueous gellable mixture is utilized following a steam flooding or steam stimulation enhanced oil recovery method. After being placed into the steam swept zone having varying permeabilities, a temperature above 300.degree. F. activates components in the gellable mixture which causes a solid gel to form which closes pores in the steam swept zone. A spacer volume of cold water is pumped into the formation to remove any ungelled mixture. Steam is directed into an unswept zone and hydrocarbonaceous fluids recovered therefrom. Polymers utilized include polyvinyl alcohol and polyacrylamide cross-linked with phenol and an aldehyde producing compound sufficient to form a phenolic resin in situ.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.