Methods of fracturing subterranean formations
US6412561B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jul 2, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S507/933
- WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The improved recovery of hydrocarbons from subterranean formations by hydraulically fracturing a subterranean formation is accomplished. Fracturing fluids using a viscoelastic surfactant fluid containing wormlike micelles are useful to improve recovery of hydrocarbons and limit the loss of fracturing fluid into the formation fracture face. The invention further relates to novel fracturing methods useful for increasing hydrocarbon production, limiting connate water production, resisting fracturing fluid loss into the subterranean formation, and reducing the equipment requirements in mixing and pumping fracturing fluid. The action of micelles of surfactant in aqueous zones of the subterranean formation facilitates the flowback of increased amounts of hydrocarbons once a fractured well is placed back on production.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.