Preconditioning a subsurface shale formation by removing extractible organics
US8701788B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 22, 2011 |
| Grant date | Apr 22, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 9, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC10G1/002
- WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The invention relates to methods for extracting an organics component from subsurface shale formations comprising kerogen and an extractible organics component in an inorganic matrix. Among other factors, these processes are based on the discovery that to more easily access the kerogen in oil shale, it is helpful to first remove the extractible organics component from the subsurface shale formation. The methods utilize a hydrocarbon solvent to at least partially solubilize the extractible organics component. The extractible organics component can be isolated and upgraded to produce useful products. The processes are more environmentally benign, more economical, and more efficient in producing commercial products and in providing access to kerogen.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.