Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the composition and method for reducing the permeability of subterranean formations penetrated by a wellbore. The composition of the present invention comprises a wellbore fluid having dispersed therein a fluid loss control agent comprising a polyester polymer which is substantially insoluble in the wellbore fluid. The polymer degrades in the presence of water at an elevated temperature to form small molecules which are soluble in a fluid in the subterranean formation. The method of the present invention comprises reducing the permeability of subterranean formations penetrated by a wellbore by placing the composition of the present invention down the wellbore.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 4, 1983
Date of Patent:
July 2, 1985
Assignee:
Exxon Production Research Co.
Inventors:
Steven R. Erbstoesser, Claude E. Cooke, Jr., Richard G. Sinclair, Michael M. Epstein