Thermoset nanocomposite particles, processing for their production, and their use in oil and natural gas drilling applications
US8466093B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 27, 2012 |
| Grant date | Jun 18, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 27, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/2998
- WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Use of two different methods, either each by itself or in combination, to enhance the stiffness, strength, maximum possible use temperature, and environmental resistance of thermoset polymer particles is disclosed. One method is the application of post-polymerization process steps (and especially heat treatment) to advance the curing reaction and to thus obtain a more densely crosslinked polymer network. The other method is the incorporation of nanofillers, resulting in a heterogeneous “nanocomposite” morphology. Nanofiller incorporation and post-polymerization heat treatment can also be combined to obtain the benefits of both methods simultaneously. The present invention relates to the development of thermoset nanocomposite particles. Optional further improvement of the heat resistance and environmental resistance of said particles via post-polymerization heat treatment; processes for the manufacture of said particles; and use of said particles in the construction, drilling, completion and/or fracture stimulation of oil and natural gas wells are described.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.