Abstract: A method is provided for substantially self-powering turbines by expanding compressed gases released downhole or in adjacent formations. These gases do work in the turbines as the gases expand toward atmospheric pressure at the earth's surface. The method offers alternative and supplemental approaches to recovering hydrocarbon gases, water vapor, carbon dioxide, other gases, and petroleum from watered out wells and from deep or hot wells.

Abstract: In situ (subsurface) methods and devices are described for releasing gaseous hydrocarbons and steam from solution in water or brine, from captured bubbles in formation pores, and from hydrate deposits. With geopressured brines the volume of the brine is reduced so that its volume is less than the sandstone pore volume which holds the brine; at this point the reservoir creates a gas cap of methane and steam which can be produced. Gas caps are formed in natural domes, artificial domes are developed, down-hole engines and pumps are powered both by in situ forces and by surface-generated forces; all are described.

Abstract: A method is described for circulating hydrostatically pressured or geopressured brines so that dissolved methane in the brines can be recovered within the wellpipe. All processes take place downhole or in the surrounding briny formations, and the circulation is powered wholly or in large part by the pressure on the brine and natural compressive forces in the formation.

Abstract: In situ (subsurface) methods and devices are described for releasing gaseous hydrocarbons and steam from solution in water or brine, from captured bubbles in formation pores, and from hydrate deposits. With geopressured brines the volume of the brine is reduced so that its volume is less than the sandstone pore volume which holds the brine; at this point the reservoir creates a gas cap of methane and steam which can be produced. Gas caps are formed in natural domes, artificial domes are developed, down-hole engines and pumps are powered both by in situ forces and by surface-generated forces; all are described.

Abstract: A waterless method of separating minerals and a mobile mineral separator are described in which preheated mine products are continuously separated from associated mine refuse by sink/float washing in a heavy-liquid bath which has been heated to its boiling point. The heavy liquids will usually be halogenated organic liquids or liquid mixtures. The separated product and reject fractions are withdrawn by augers to drainage hoppers where most of the heavy liquids are removed for return to the bath. Final removal of the heavy liquids from the mine products and reject fractions is accomplished by vaporization as the product and the reject fraction move by additional augers through heated pipes. The vaporized heavy liquids are collected in air-cooled or otherwise cooled condensers and are returned to the bath. The heavy liquids are essentially completely recycled.