Abstract: A method for inhibiting scale formation in an oil or gas well is provided. Specifically, the method is a novel "squeeze" application. The squeeze comprises injecting three solutions into the oil or gas well: (1) the preflush solution, (2) the pill solution, and (3) the overflush solution. After the injection of the three solutions, the well is shut-in for about 24 to about 48 hours. The squeeze application is useful regardless of whether the mechanism for inhibitor fixation is adsorption or precipitation.

Abstract: A process for rendering an inorganic substrate material hydrophobic includes the step of attaching a coating of hydrophobic silica to the substrate. The hydrophobic silica is preferably mixed initially with the substrate material. At least one bonding agent selected from the group consisting of siloxanes and functionalized silanes, and preferably siloxanes, is then mixed with the hydrophobic silica and substrate material. A dispersion agent can be provided to more evenly distribute the siloxanes and/or functionalized silanes over the hydrophobic silica and substrate material. Heat can be applied after mixing to remove any liquid dispersion agent and to chemically bond the bonding agent to the hydrophobic silica and to the substrate material. Hydrophobic inorganic materials including hydrophobic silica bonded to a substrate by a siloxane or functionalized silane bonding agent.