Apparatus and method for controlled deployment of shape-conforming materials
US7828055B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 11, 2007 |
| Grant date | Nov 9, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 15, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B43/103
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An apparatus and method for filling a defined space, such as an annulus around a production tubular within a wellbore, includes a compliant porous material. The compliant porous material can be compressed and maintained in a compressed state by incorporation of a deployment modifier which may be a water-soluble or oil-soluble adhesive or biopolymer, used as an impregnant, a coating, or a casing. The production tubular can be positioned at a desired location and the compliant porous material exposed to a deployment modifier neutralizing agent, which then dissolves or otherwise prevents the deployment modifier from continuing to inhibit the deployment. Thus, deployment can be delayed to an optimum time by controlling exposure of the deployment modifier to the deployment modifier neutralizing agent.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.