Using nanoparticles for water flow control in subterranean formations
US8053397B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 19, 2008 |
| Grant date | Nov 8, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 7, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC09K2208/10
- WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Non-aqueous carrier fluids containing nano-sized particles in high concentration are effective for zone isolation and flow control in water shutoff applications for subterranean formations. The nanoparticles interact with water and solidify it to inhibit its flow, but do not have the same effect on hydrocarbons and thus selectively assist the production of hydrocarbons while suppressing water. Suitable nanoparticles include alkaline earth metal oxides, alkaline earth metal hydroxides, alkali metal oxides, alkali metal hydroxides, transition metal oxides, transition metal hydroxides, post-transition metal oxides, post-transition metal hydroxides, piezoelectric crystals, and/or pyroelectric crystals.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.