Abstract: A process is provided for reducing fluid leakage from or into a subterranean storage cavern through the earthen wall of the storage cavern by sealing a relatively high permeability region of the earthen wall, through which the leakage occurs, with a sealing composition in the form of a gel. The process is initiated by preparing a gelation solution from a crosslinkable polymer, a crosslinking agent, and an aqueous solvent. The gelation solution is dispensed into the storage cavern and substantially gelled at the relatively high permeability region, forming a gel that reduces the permeability of the relatively high permeability region and effectively seals the region to fluid flow therethrough. Alternatively, the gelation solution is placed at the relatively high permeability region of the subterranean storage cavern by injecting the gelation solution into an injection well in fluid communication with the relatively high permeability region.

Abstract: Fibers are added to a gelation solution and the mixture is pumped to a subterranean injection site where it gels in place. The gelation solution is preferably comprised of partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide polymer and a crosslinking agent, while the fibers are those which do not interfere with the gelation process and can provide adequate reinforcement while not adversely affecting the ability of the solution to be pumped and injected. Glass fibers and cellulosic fibers are specifically disclosed as preferable reinforcing fibers.