In situ method and system for extraction of oil from shale
US7921907B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 13, 2010 |
| Grant date | Apr 12, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 13, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B43/30
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A system and process for extracting hydrocarbons from a subterranean body of oil shale within an oil shale deposit located beneath an overburden. The system comprises an energy delivery subsystem to heat the body of oil shale and a hydrocarbon gathering subsystem for gathering hydrocarbons retorted from the body of oil shale. The energy delivery subsystem comprises at least one energy delivery well drilled from the surface of the earth through the overburden to a depth proximate a bottom of the body of oil shale, the energy delivery well extending generally downward from a surface location above a proximal end of the body of oil shale to be retorted and continuing proximate the bottom of the body of oil shale. The energy delivery well may extend into the body of oil shale at an angle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.