Abstract: A formulation and method of use for eliminating the use of hexa in shell sand encapsulation is disclosed. The composition of matter consists of standard novalac resins with the hexa component replaced by solid granular resole or curing agent. The preferred formulation and method of compounding is given. Trace elements of ammonia, phenol and the like are further reduced by the addition of a preferred 50:50 mix of an ammonia buffer and masking agent. The preferred compounds for the ammonia buffer and masking agent mix are given.

Abstract: A formulation and method of use for eliminating the use of hexa in shell sand encapsulation is disclosed. The composition of matter consists of standard novalac resins with the hexa component replaced by solid granular resole or curing agent. The preferred formulation and method of compounding is given. Trace elements of ammonia, phenol and the like are further reduced by the addition of a preferred 50:50 mix of an ammonia buffer and masking agent. The preferred compounds for the ammonia buffer and masking agent mix are given.

Abstract: A new proppant comprises a proppant particle substrate, a water-soluble external coating on the proppant particle substrate and a microparticulate reinforcing and spacing agent at least partially embedded in the water-soluble external coating in a manner such that the microparticulate reinforcing agent is substantially released from the proppant particle substrate when the water-soluble coating dissolves or degrades.

Abstract: An environmentally safe composition of matter for use as a promoter chemical in flotation separation of carbonates from industrial sand is disclosed. The promoter chemical replaces the standard petroleum sulfonate, glycol ether and nonphenol used in promoter chemicals with biodegradable substitutes permitting the waste from flotation separation to be disposed without fear of contamination of ground water. The biodegradable promoter is technically sound and causes little change to the flotation process.

Abstract: A degradable ball sealer for use in the oil and gas industry is disclosed. The ball seat comprises a particular composition of matter and injection molding technique that provides a ball seal which will dissolve in stimulation or wellbore fluids after stimulation operations are complete. In use, the surface of the ball sealer softens slightly assuring a solid seal between the ball the and the casing perforation. The composition when dissolved into wellbore fluids does not pose a hazard and disperses well in aqueous based wellbore fluids. The same composition, made into a larger ball, may be used as a tubing sealer for pressure testing.