Abstract: The improved recovery of hydrocarbons from subterranean formations by hydraulically fracturing a subterranean formation is accomplished. Fracturing fluids using a viscoelastic surfactant fluid containing wormlike micelles are useful to improve recovery of hydrocarbons and limit the loss of fracturing fluid into the formation fracture face. The invention further relates to novel fracturing methods useful for increasing hydrocarbon production, limiting connate water production, resisting fracturing fluid loss into the subterranean formation, and reducing the equipment requirements in mixing and pumping fracturing fluid. The action of micelles of surfactant in aqueous zones of the subterranean formation facilitates the flowback of increased amounts of hydrocarbons once a fractured well is placed back on production.

Abstract: Improved fluid loss control in gravel pack placement fluids is achieved when a fluid loss control additive is provided comprising a selectively soluble particulate having a size of less than 1000 microns and having a linear size distribution when cumulative weight percent is plotted against the logarithm of the particle size. The preferred selectively soluble particulate comprises calcium carbonate.