Abstract: A method has been discovered for controlling bacterial growth using a dry biocide. Tetra-kis-hydroxymethyl-phosphonium sulfate (THPS) is adsorbed on a solid, particulate substrate through a spraying technique. The THPS in a dry form eliminates or reduces risks involved in handling and shipping the normally liquid THPS.

Abstract: A non polluting additive or spotting fluid which lubricates, releases and/or prevents differentially stuck drill strings and casings in the wellbore of a subterranean well is presented. This additive composition comprises a glycol or glycol ether derived from a long chain epoxide of greater than 3 carbon atoms (preferably greater than 10 carbon atoms); and preferably comprises the reaction product between 2-ethylhexanol and the epoxide of 1-hexadecene. The present invention enhances the lubricity of a drilling fluid to prevent drill string sticking and when utilized as a spotting agent reduces the time required to release a stuck pipe. This invention also helps reduce or prevent foaming. By eliminating the need for traditional oil-based components, the present invention is nontoxic to marine life, biodegradable, environmentally acceptable, easy to prepare, and capable of being disposed of at the drill site without costly disposal procedures.

Abstract: High viscosity complexed aqueous gels and methods and additives for forming such gels utilizing solid crystalline organic titanate complexing agents are provided. The organic titanate complexing agents react over broad pH and temperature ranges and the reaction rates thereof are controlled by the rate of dissolution of the agents.

Abstract: Energy level or temperature activated aqueous silicate compositions which gel into impermeable masses at preselected temperatures and processes of selectively forming such gels are provided using as temperature responsive gel activators certain halogenated hydrocarbons with solubilizing groups of hydrogen, carbinol, sulfonyl, aldehyde, ester and carboxyl radicals, the acid equivalents of such radicals or combinations of such radicals and acid equivalents.

Abstract: A method of treating a subterranean well formation wherein a low pH highly viscous thixotropic treating fluid is introduced into the formation. The treating fluid is formed by combining an aqueous acid solution with an aqueous alkali metal silicate solution and a gelling agent whereby a highly viscous polymerized alkali metal silicate gel of low pH is produced followed by shearing of the gel to impart thixotropic properties thereto.

Abstract: A method of treating a subterranean well formation wherein a highly viscous thixotropic treating fluid is introduced into the formation. The highly viscous thixotropic treating fluid is formed by combining an aqueous acid solution with an aqueous alkali metal silicate solution whereby a polymerized alkali metal silicate gel is produced followed by shearing of the gel to impart thixotropic properties thereto.

Abstract: Methods and additives are provided for bringing about the delayed release of a chemical such as a gel breaker or demulsifier in an aqueous fluid. The additives are pelletized solids comprised of the chemical to be released, a hydratable gelling agent and a breaker for the gel produced by the gelling agent when hydrated.

Abstract: A well acidizing or fracturing composition is prepared by adding to an aqueous acid solution or emulsion or fracturing composition, a cross-linked copolymer of a sulfonic acid-modified acrylamide and a polyvinyl cross-linking agent. The cross-linked copolymer functions as an effective fluid loss additive and/or diverting agent. From about 25 pounds to about 100 pounds of the additive is utilized per 1000 gallons of the aqueous acid solution or acid emulsion.