Abstract: A self-hydrating, self-crosslinking dry composition is used to prepare a hydrated, crosslinked fracturing fluid upon addition of water, the composition comprising (A) guar powder or a guar derivative powder; (B) crosslinker selected from the group consisting of boric acid, borax, borate ore, boron ore, antimony compounds, aluminum compounds, zirconium compounds, and titanium compounds; and (C) slow dissolving alkaline buffer, wherein the crosslinker (B) is non-encapsulated.

Abstract: A guar or a guar derivative powder having a D50 particle size of less than 40? which reaches at least 70% hydration within 60 seconds at about 70 degrees F., is disclosed. The powder can be used in applications such as drilling fluid; fracturing fluid; gravel packing fluids; completion fluid; animal litter; explosive; foodstuff; paperstock; floor covering; synthetic fuel briquettes; water thickener for firefighting; shampoo; personal care lotion; household cleaner; catalytic converter catalyst; electroplating solution; diapers; sanitary towels; super-adsorbent in food packaging; sticking plasters for skin abrasions; water-adsorbing bandages; foliar spray for plants; suspension for spraying plant seeds; suspension for spraying plant nutrients; flotation aid; and flocculent.

Abstract: A guar or a guar derivative powder having a D50 particle size of less than 40? which reaches at least 70% hydration within 60 seconds at about 21° C., is disclosed. It has been found that the improved hydration can be seen at temperatures as low as 0.6° C. The powder can be used in applications such as drilling fluid; fracturing fluid; gravel packing fluids; completion fluid; animal litter; explosive; foodstuff; paperstock; floor covering; synthetic fuel briquettes; water thickener for firefighting; shampoo; personal care lotion; household cleaner; catalytic converter catalyst; electroplating solution; diapers; sanitary towels; super-adsorbent in food packaging; sticking plasters for skin abrasions; water-adsorbing bandages; foliar spray for plants; suspension for spraying plant seeds; suspension for spraying plant nutrients; flotation aid; and flocculent.