Abstract: A method of extracting oil from an underground bed of an oil-bearing mineral. The method comprises introducing a plurality of conduits into a first, lower part of the bed. Each conduit is spaced from its neighbors and includes a relatively coarse filter at its lower end and contains a relatively fine filter and a lift pump. A first conduit of the plurality of conduits extends to a depth less than the depth of its neighbors. The pressure in the first conduit is reduced. A solvent for the oil is introduced into those conduits at ambient pressure so that the solvent is drawn towards the first conduit and forms a flow path in the bed as it is drawn to the first conduit. The oil-solvent solution is pumped from the first conduit and the space left in the first area after extraction of the oil is filled with water.

Abstract: Marine sediment contains organic matter which can be extracted to provide a source of energy, by extracting the organic matter from the marine sediment when in the form of a slurry, and separating the organic matter from the extracted material.

Abstract: Casing is run into a well bore hole on a running pipe string. Fluid motor and drill apparatus is supported in the casing, with the drill extending below the lower end of the casing to drill the bore hole in advance of the casing. For subsea drilling operations, the casing is suspended from a riser housing which lands on a subsea base, and the running pipe is released from the riser housing to enable retrieval of the motor and drill assembly. Plural motors are employed for drilling large holes.