Abstract: A method is proposed for treating subsurface earth formations in the neighborhood of a steam injection well by selectively altering the effective permeability of the formation through depositing a monomer within the formation where the permeability is to be controlled and the eventual polymerization of that monomer to produce a high-viscosity polymer within the formation to effectively decrease the permeability of that portion of the formation. The monomer is transported to the subsurface formation in vapor form with steam. The mixed vapor first condenses out liquid water only and later condenses out water and immiscible liquid monomer. The polymerization of the monomer then takes place to produce a high-viscosity polymer within the subsurface formation.

Abstract: In an improved method for the treatment of a permeable formation or zone adjacent to the bore of an oil well, the setting time of an acid-settable liquid is predictably delayed by use of a novel catalyst system. The method provides an effective means for controlling the reduction of the permeability of the formation or zone in a single stage treatment by dissolving the catalyst in the liquid and introducing the solution into the formation. The catalyst system comprises a mixture of a suitable acid-releasing compound and a base.

Abstract: In an improved method for the treatment of a permeable formation or zone adjacent to the bore of an oil well, the setting time of an acid-settable liquid is predictably delayed by use of a novel catalyst system. The method provides an effective means for controlling the reduction of the permeability of the formation or zone in a single stage treatment by dissolving the catalyst in the liquid and introducing the solution into the formation. The catalyst system comprises a mixture of a suitable acid-releasing compound and a base.