Abstract: The method of using soap as a fluid loss additive in the hydraulic fracturing treatment of oil and gas wells includes choosing a soap having a titre value which will insure that the soap will dissolve and liquify at the formation temperature in the area where fluid loss is to be reduced. The formation temperature in this area is reduced to an extent where the soap will not liquify, while the soap is introduced into the area under pressure, and this lower temperature is maintained while a fracturing or cementing process is carried out. Subsequently, the temperature in the area where fluid loss is to be reduced is permitted to rise and liquify the soap which is then removed from the well.

Abstract: A dry mixture of a crosslinking compound and a hydratable gelling agent where said dry mixture is storable for at least three months during which time it is readily activatable to rapidly produce an active, high-viscosity acidic treating fluid.

Abstract: An aqueous gel containing a crosslinking agent comprising an organotitanate chelate and a retarding agent which delays crosslinking of the gel. This retarding agent comprises a polyhydroxyl-containing compound. The gel is useful for fracturing and placing propping agents within a subterranean formation. The gel has a high viscosity in the formation and has pumping characteristics in turbulent flow similar to those of water.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a crosslinked aqueous gel for fracturing and placing propping agents within subterranean formations, said gel having a viscosity in said formations greater than about 20,000 centipoises and having pumping characteristics in turbulent flow approaching those of water.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a crosslinked aqueous gel for fracturing and placing propping agents within subterranean formations, said gel having a viscosity in said formations greater than about 20,000 centipoises and having pumping characteristics in turbulent flow approaching those of water.