Abstract: A method for fracturing a subterranean formation penetrated by a well bore comprises formulating a fracturing fluid useful in hydrocarbon drilling having the properties of both a dispersing fracture solution and an aggregating fracture solution. In particular, the dispersing properties of the stabilizing fracture solution are able to act as a dispersing fracture fluid in the clay and earthen materials discharged from the pay zone in the flow-back fluids during hydraulic fracturing. At the same time, aggregating properties of the stabilizing solution stabilize the pay zone. This stabilization property allows the flow of hydrocarbon through the fractures for a significantly longer time than with prior art fluids.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for fracturing a subterranean formation penetrated by a well bore, by formulating a fracturing fluid useful in hydrocarbon drilling having the properties of both a dispersing fracture solution and an aggregating fracture solution. In particular, the dispersing properties of the stabilizing fracture solution are able to act as a dispersing fracture fluid in the clay and earthen materials discharged from the pay zone, in the flow-back fluids during hydraulic fracturing. At the same time, aggregating properties of the stabilizing solution stabilizes the pay zone. This stabilization property allows the flow of hydrocarbon through the fractures for a significantly longer time than with prior art fluids.

Abstract: A brine sealant solution and both a one-step and two-step process for producing an earthen hardpan in a pond or slush pit is described. The process disperses clay in an aqueous solution using monovalent and divalent cations and bentonite clay. The dispersed clay is then used to fill the seepage capillaries. A second aqueous solution of monovalent and divalent cations and a wetting agent is applied and aggregates the clay and creates a hardpan.

Abstract: The present invention provides a brine sealant solution and a one and two-step process for producing an earthen hardpan in a pond or slush pit. The process disperses clay in an aqueous solution using monovalent and divalent cations and bentonite clay. The dispersed clay is then used to fill the seepage capillaries. A second aqueous solution of monovalent and divalent cations and a wetting agent is applied and aggregates the clay and creates a hardpan.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a method of creating an earthen hard pan formation includes applying a sealant solution to an earthen formation to form a hard pan below a surface of the earthen formation, and subsequently applying magnesium chloride to the earthen formation to stabilize and sustain the hard pan.