Abstract: A high strength composite particle comprised of a series of incrementally applied resin microlayer coatings such that each of the microlayer partial coatings are interleaved with each other is described. Methods of making the composite particles, as well as methods of using such particles as a proppant in oil and gas well hydraulic fracturing are also described.

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 device and process for continuously applying coatings, such as resin and additives or polymers or the like, to minerals are disclosed. The device and apparatus differ substantially from standard batch coating processes currently used by industry. The apparatus uses a horizontal cylinder with an internal auger and a series of injection ports distributed along the cylinder. Minerals that are to be coated are pretreated and passed through the mixing cylinder using the auger (which may comprise one or more screws with variable pitch blades). As the mineral particles pass through the cylinder various coating materials are injected by the injection ports. The complete system is described, the method of use is explained and the control system which allows for different products is described.

Abstract: Described is an oil-degradable ball sealer for use in the oil and gas industry. The ball seal comprises a particular composition including ethylene and one or more alpha-olefins, prepared by an injection molding technique to provide a ball sealer which will dissolve in stimulation or wellbore fluids after stimulation operations are complete. The composition, when dissolved into wellbore fluids, does not pose a hazard or problem to aqueous wellbore fluids or further wellbore stimulations.

Abstract: Coated particle substrates having a coating of resin and/or water soluble polymers and soluble, fibrous material are provided for use in subterranean formations. The coated particle substrate particles are typically proppants used to prop open subterranean hydrocarbon formations during recovery processes, such as after a hydraulic fracture, and provide both improved settling characteristics and improved hydrocarbon flow characteristics due to the conductive channels formed by the soluble fibers downhole. Methods of making the coated particles are also described.

Abstract: An aluminosilicate ceramic, spherical pellet made from spent ceramic catalyst. More specifically, a spherical ceramic pellet made from spent fluid cracking catalyst. The pellets can be made by grinding the catalyst particles, forming them into spherical pellets, and then sintering the pellets. The final product is useful as a proppant in oil and gas well fracturing.

Abstract: A degradable compound, which may be used as a ball sealer and as an fluid loss additive for use in the oil and gas industry is disclosed. The compound comprises a particular composition of matter and injection molding technique that provides a ball sealer which will dissolve in stimulation or wellbore fluids after stimulation operations are complete. In a similar manner the compound may be used as a fluid loss additive which enhances the fracture filter cake and will dissolve completely after use in fracturing operations. Used as a ball sealer, the surface of the ball sealer softens slightly assuring a solid seal between the ball and the casing perforation. The pure composition when dissolved into wellbore fluids does not pose a hazard and has excellent dispersion in aqueous based wellbore fluids. The same composition, may be combined with fiber-glass to manufacture a high temperature ball sealer.

Abstract: An aluminosilicate ceramic, spherical pellet made from spent ceramic catalyst. More specifically, a spherical ceramic pellet made from spent fluid cracking catalyst. The pellets can be made by grinding the catalyst particles, forming them into spherical pellets, and then sintering the pellets. The final product is useful as a proppant in oil and gas well fracturing.