Controlled Release Agent Patents (Class 507/902)
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Patent number: 11613943Abstract: A lost circulation material (LCM) having flakes formed from waste vehicle tires. The LCM includes flakes produced from waste vehicle tires processed to remove steel components of the tires and produce flakes having a specific size. Also, methods of lost circulation control and manufacture of the waste vehicle tire LCM.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2021Date of Patent: March 28, 2023Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventors: Adel Al-Ansari, Md Amanullah, Bader Al-Zahrani, Turki Al-Subaie
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Patent number: 9012378Abstract: Apparatus and compositions for reducing the viscosity of a gelled fluid is provided. In one embodiment, a viscosity reducing microbe is disposed in a capsule and added to the gelled fluid. The gelled fluid may include a thickening agent adapted to increase its viscosity. Upon release from the capsule, the microbe begins to digest the thickening agent in the gelled fluid and/or releases enzymes that that breakdown the thickening agent.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2011Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Inventors: Barry Ekstrand, Frank Zamora, Sarkis R. Kakadjian
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Patent number: 8772205Abstract: Of the many embodiments presented herein, one is a subterranean treatment fluid comprising: an aqueous fluid; and a water-soluble degradable synthetic vinyl polymer having a labile link in its backbone. Also provided in one instance is a water-soluble degradable synthetic vinyl polymer with labile group in its backbone made by a redox polymerization, the redox polymerization reaction comprising these reactants: a macroinitiator that comprises a labile link, an oxidizing metal ion, and a vinyl monomer.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2010Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Alexander Bismarck, Emilia M. Kot, Rajesh K. Saini
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Patent number: 8765647Abstract: Method and agent for reducing water production from oil and gas wells. The agent comprises polymer, cross-linked particles which are stable in water-free solvents. The particles are manufactured in an oil-in-oil emulsion and are cross-linked with at least one water-stable cross-linker and at least one water-labile cross-linker. The water-labile cross-linker is chosen so that when it is opened or broken in a reaction with water a hydrophilic seat is formed which increases the particle's ability to swell in water. The particles furthermore comprise a controlled amount of an immobilized chemical compound which by means of the reaction between water and reactive groups in the polymer skeleton, become able to form chemical bonds to another particle, to another reactive seat in the same particle or to another compounds thereby increasing the agent's stability in the formation.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2007Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Wellcem Innovation ASInventors: Lars Kilaas, Einar Dahl-Jörgensen
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Patent number: 8372786Abstract: A polyelectrolyte complex for the controlled release of an oil and gas field chemical selected from the group consisting of (a) a gel-forming or cross-linking agent, (b) a scale inhibitor, (c) a corrosion inhibitor, (d) an inhibitor of asphaltene or wax deposition, (e) a hydrogen sulfide scavenger, (f) a hydrate inhibitor, (g) a breaking agent, and a surfactant.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2009Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: University of KansasInventors: Cory Berkland, Mary Cordova, Jenn-Tai Liang, G. Paul Willhite
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Patent number: 8183179Abstract: A method for treating a subterranean formation includes forming a treatment fluid including a carrier fluid, a solid acid-precursor, and a solid scale inhibitor. The solid acid-precursor includes a material that forms an acid at downhole conditions in the subterranean formation. The method further includes adding a solid acid-responsive material into the treatment fluid, where the solid acid-responsive material enhances formation of acid from the solid acid-precursor in acidic conditions. The method includes performing an acid fracture treatment and inhibiting scale formation within the subterranean formation. The solid scale inhibitor allows for long-term scale inhibition after the treatment.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2011Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Marieliz Garcia-Lopez De Victoria, John W. Still, Toan Bui
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Patent number: 8183184Abstract: A polyelectrolyte complex for the controlled release of an oil and gas field chemical selected from the group consisting of (a) a gel-forming or cross-linking agent, (b) a scale inhibitor, (c) a corrosion inhibitor, (d) an inhibitor of asphaltene or wax deposition, (e) a hydrogen sulfide scavenger, (f) a hydrate inhibitor, (g) a breaking agent, and a surfactant.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2006Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: University of KansasInventors: Cory Berkland, Mary Cordova, Jenn-Tai Liang, G. Paul Willhite
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Patent number: 8158563Abstract: A sealant composition, comprising an alkali metal silicate and a calcium containing inorganic compound, wherein the particles of the calcium containing compound have a mean particle size that is submicron, is useful for sealing cracks, fissures and voids in subterranean wells, thereby restoring zonal isolation. The mean particle size of the calcium containing compound is preferably smaller than 100 nm.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2010Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Simon James, Michel Michaux
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Patent number: 8043996Abstract: A process is disclosed for treating an underground formation, which process comprises: (a) introducing into the underground formation a micellar dispersion comprising water, one or more organic acid precursors, one or more surfactants and, optionally, one or more salts, co-surfactants and/or organic liquids that are not organic acid precursors; and (b) allowing (i) the micellar dispersion to solubilize hydrocarbons, emulsions or water blocks present in the underground formation, and (ii) at least a portion of the organic acid precursor to hydrolyze in-situ to produce sufficient organic acid to substantively dissolve acid soluble material present in or adjacent to filter cakes or other damage in the underground formation.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2008Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: Cleansorb LimitedInventor: Ralph Edmund Harris
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Patent number: 7963333Abstract: A process is described for replacing at least a portion of the liquid within the annular volume of a casing system within a wellbore with a second liquid. The second liquid is preselected to provide a measure of control of the pressure within the annular volume as the fluid within the volume is being heated.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2009Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignees: Chevron U.S.A. Inc., Los Alamos National Security LLCInventors: Robert E. Hermes, Manuel E. Gonzalez, Brian C. Llewellyn, James B. Bloys, Don M. Coates
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Patent number: 7950460Abstract: A process is described for replacing at least a portion of the liquid within the annular volume of a casing system within a wellbore with a second liquid. The second liquid is preselected to provide a measure of control of the pressure within the annular volume as the fluid within the volume is being heated.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2009Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignees: Chevron U.S.A. Inc., Los Alamos National Security, LLCInventors: Robert E. Hermes, Manuel E. Gonzalez, Brian C. Llewellyn, James B. Bloys, Don M. Coates
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Patent number: 7946342Abstract: A method for oil recovery whereby an exothermic water reactant (EWR) encapsulated in a water soluble coating is placed in water and pumped into one or more oil wells in contact with an oil bearing formation. After the water carries the EWR to the bottom of the injection well, the water soluble coating dissolves and the EWR reacts with the water to produce heat, an alkali solution, and hydrogen. The heat from the EWR reaction generates steam, which is forced into the oil bearing formation where it condenses and transfers heat to the oil, elevating its temperature and decreasing the viscosity of the oil. The aqueous alkali solution mixes with the oil in the oil bearing formation and forms a surfactant that reduces the interfacial tension between the oil and water. The hydrogen may be used to react with the oil at these elevated temperatures to form lighter molecules, thus upgrading to a certain extent the oil in situ.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2009Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventor: Eric P. Robertson
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Patent number: 7942201Abstract: Apparatus and methods of reducing the viscosity of a gelled fluid is provided. In one embodiment, a viscosity reducing microbe is disposed in a capsule and added to the gelled fluid. The gelled fluid may include a thickening agent adapted to increase its viscosity. Upon release from the capsule, the microbe begins to digest the thickening agent in the gelled fluid and/or releases enzymes that that breakdown the thickening agent.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2008Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: Clearwater International, LLCInventors: Barry Ekstrand, Frank Zamora, Sarkis R. Kakadjian
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Patent number: 7807609Abstract: The invention provides a method for the treatment of a hydrocarbon well which method comprises administering, down said well, polymeric particles having covalently bound to a polymeric component thereof a well treatment chemical or a precursor thereof, wherein the particles contain covalent bonds scissile in an aqueous environment to release or expose said chemical or precursor.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2008Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Statoil ASAInventors: Hans Kristian Kotlar, Olav Martin Selle, Oddvar Arnfinn Aune, Lars Kilaas, Anne Dalager Dyrli
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Patent number: 7493955Abstract: A composite of a well treatment agent adsorbed onto a water-insoluble adsorbent is useful in the treatment of oil and gas wells and may be introduced, as a well treatment fluid, with a carrier fluid. The water-insoluble adsorbent may be activated carbon, silica particulate, precipitated silica, zeolite, diatomaceous earth, ground walnut shells, fuller's earth and organic synthetic high molecular weight water-insoluble adsorbents. Suitable as the well treatment agent are scale inhibitors, corrosion inhibitors, paraffin inhibitors, salt inhibitors, gas hydrate inhibitors, asphaltene inhibitors, oxygen scavengers, biocides, foaming agent, emulsion breakers and surfactants.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2005Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Assignee: BJ Services CompanyInventors: D. V. Satyanarayana Gupta, Joseph Walter Kirk
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Patent number: 7473672Abstract: The invention provides a method for the treatment of a hydrocarbon well which method comprises administering, down said well, polymeric particles having covalently bound to a polymeric component thereof a well treatment chemical or a precursor thereof, wherein the particles contain covalent bonds scissile in an aqueous environment to release or expose said chemical or precursor.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Statoilhydro ASAInventors: Hans Kristian Kotlar, Olav Martin Selle, Oddvar Arnfinn Aune, Lars Kilaas, Anne Dalager Dyrli
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Patent number: 7441599Abstract: A process is described for replacing at least a portion of the liquid within the annular volume of a casing system within a wellbore with a second liquid. The second liquid is preselected to provide a measure of control of the pressure within the annular volume as the fluid within the volume is being heated.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignees: Chevron U.S.A. Inc., Los Alamos National Security, LLCInventors: Robert E. Hermes, Manuel E. Gonzalez, Brian C. Llewellyn, James B. Bloys
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Patent number: 7395863Abstract: A well treating composition containing a polysaccharide-based water-superabsorbent material has particularly applicability as a thermal insulating, fracturing or acid stimulation fluid. The water-superabsorbent material is capable of absorbing, at a minimum, its own weight. Particularly effective are biodegradable materials containing guar gum and carrageenan. The composition may further contain a crosslinking agent, brine and/or a viscosifying polymer or a gelling agent. As an oil-based fluid, the crosslinking agent is absorbed onto the water-superabsorbent material and serves to effectively delay crosslinking.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2007Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: BJ Services CompanyInventors: Xiaolan Wang, Qi Qu
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Patent number: 7360593Abstract: Coatings for well screens that protect the screens from damage as they are inserted into the wellbore and once in the well, release reactive materials to react with and degrade potentially plugging materials such as drill solids, fluid filtercakes, fluid loss additives, and drilling fluids. The coatings can be specifically designed for individual well conditions and are comprised of a binder that either melts or dissolves within the wellbore and one or more reactive materials such as acids, enzymes, surfactants, chelants, oxidizers or free radical generators and the like which are released into the screen and the near wellbore area and which are effective in degrading or dissolving materials which could potentially plug the screen.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2004Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Inventor: Vernon George Constien
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Patent number: 7354886Abstract: Pumpable multiple phase vesicle compositions carry agents and components downhole or through a conduit, and controllably releasing them at a different place and time by breaking the compositions. In one non-limiting embodiment the pumpable multiple phase vesicles have a third phase containing a first phase which bears the agent to be controllably released. The first and third phases of the vesicles are separated by a surface active material bilayer that forms the second phase. The pumpable multiple phase vesicles may have internal and external phases that are both oil miscible, both aqueous miscible, or both alcohol miscible. The surface active material bilayer may be composed of compounds such as phospholipids, alkyl polyglycosides, gemini surfactants, sorbitan monooleate, sorbitan trioleate, and many others. The agent may be released by one or more of a variety of mechanisms.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2004Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Ronald G. Bland, Lirio Quintero
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Patent number: 7314850Abstract: Improved methods and compositions for treating subterranean formations penetrated by well bores are provided. A method for breaking a gelled hydrocarbon fluid comprised of a hydrocarbon liquid, a ferric iron or aluminum polyvalent metal salt of a phosphonic acid ester or dialkylphosphinic acid is provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2003Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Robert S. Taylor, Gary P. Funkhouser
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Patent number: 7306035Abstract: A method of introducing an oil field or gas field production chemical into a hydrocarbon-bearing porous subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore comprising: injecting a gelling composition comprising an aqueous liquid, an oil field or gas field production chemical, and a gellable polymer through the wellbore into the porous subterranean formation wherein the gellable polymer forms a gel within the pores of the subterranean formation thereby encapsulating the production chemical in the gel; and controllably releasing the production chemical from the gel into a formation fluid.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2003Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: BP Exploration Operating Company LimitedInventors: Ian Ralph Collins, Trevor Jones, Christopher George Osborne
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Patent number: 7290614Abstract: The invention provides a fluid for use in a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore, the fluid comprising: (a) water; (b) delayed release acid; (c) a surfactant comprising a tertiary alkyl amine etboxylate generally represented by the following formula: wherein R is an alkyl group or groups, X is about 2 to about 15, and Y is about 2 to about 15; and (e) a gelling agent. The invention also provides a method of fracturing a subterranean formation, comprising the step of forming a foamed fracturing fluid comprising water; a surfactant comprising a tertiary alkyl amine ethoxylate generally represented by the formula above; a gelling agent; and a gas. The method also provides the step of introducing the foamed fracturing fluid into a subterranean formation at a pressure sufficient to create a fracture in the subterranean formation. The method also provides the step of introducing an acid into the subterranean formation.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2005Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Michael W. Smith, John M. Terracina
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Patent number: 7244693Abstract: A method for the treatment of a hydrocarbon well comprising administering down the well polymeric particles impregnated with a well treatment chemical or precursor or generator thereof. The particles have a pore volume of at least 20%, and are prepared by a process which comprises preparing an aqueous dispersion of polymer particles containing from 0.05 to 10 times by volume, based on the polymer, of one or more specific first material(s) adding a partly water-soluble second material having a water-solubility of at least ten times that of first material(s) under conditions which prevent or hinder transport of first material(s) through the aqueous phase, whereby second material diffuses into the polymer particles swelled with first material(s) and increases the volume of said particles by from 20 to 1000 times, based on the polymer.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2001Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: Statoil ASAInventors: Hans Kristian Kotlar, Olav Martin Selle, Oddvar Arnfinn Aune, Lars Kilaas, Anne Dalager Dyrli
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Patent number: 7219731Abstract: A method is given for treating a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore with a viscosified fluid. The fluid contains a solid hydrolysable polyacid that upon dissolution and hydrolysis releases an acid that is a breaker for the viscosifying system. Suitable solid hydrolysable polyacids include polylactic acid and polyglycolic acid. The fluid also contains a pH control agent, present in an amount sufficient to neutralize any acid present in the solid hydrolysable polyacid before the injection and to neutralize any acid generated by the solid hydrolysable polyacid during the injection, so that the acid breaker is not available to break the fluid during the injection. In one embodiment the viscosifier is a viscoelastic surfactant fluid system and the solid hydrolysable polyacid is of a size selected to be a fluid loss additive, for example in fracturing or gravel packing.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2005Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Philip F. Sullivan, J Ernest Brown, Jesse C. Lee, Golchehreh Salamat
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Patent number: 7196040Abstract: A material and a device for releasing chemicals in a fluid environment is disclosed, and a method for releasing substances into downhole fluid environments. The invention also relates to materials for sand control and hydraulic fracturing. The substance release device typically comprises a polymeric material for releasing a substance into a downhole fluid environment in a well, and in preferred embodiments the material comprises a spherical, plastic chemical release capsule which is hard, permeable and may encapsulate a range of solids and/or liquids for subsequent release. These solids or liquids can include inhibitors such as scale inhibitors and other oilfield production chemicals for release into the wellbore of an oil or gas producing well or a water injection well.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2001Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: T R Oil Services LimitedInventors: Stephen Mark Heath, Hugh Malcolm Bourne
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Patent number: 7135440Abstract: Disclosed is a method for introducing additives into an oil, gas, or water injection well or pipeline in solid form at a location other than at the bottom. The method is practiced using pellets having a density sufficient to suspend the pellet at a top phase, bottom phase or at the interface of two phases of fluid within a wellbore. The pellets are prepared from a pellet matrix, such as an ethoxylated wax, and a weighting agent as well as an additive. By varying the amount of weighting agent, the density of the pellet can be varied to suspend it at a desired point to for a time sufficient to deliver the additive to the desired point within the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2003Date of Patent: November 14, 2006Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Samuel Everett Campbell
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Patent number: 7049272Abstract: The invention provides a method of treating of a well, a formation, or both, with the solids, liquids, or apparatuses, by 1) encasing said solids, liquids, or apparatuses in a water-soluble shell, 2) conveying said encased solids, liquids, or apparatuses to a predetermined location in the well, and then 3) allowing the water-soluble shell to dissolve in the aqueous phase in the wellbore. The shell is preferably made of water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol copolymers and a waterproofing agent. The shell encases a variety of solids, liquids, or combinations thereof, where said solids or liquids are useful in the treatment of the well or of the producing formation. Illustrative encased material includes soap, acid, corrosion inhibitors, chelating agents, scale inhibitors, mutual solvents, paraffin inhibitors, paraffin dissolvers, clay stabilizers, and tracer materials. The encased materials may also be apparatuses, such as a prefabricated screen completion or a prefabricated sand-pack.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2002Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: Santrol, Inc.Inventors: A. Richard Sinclair, S. Byron Smith
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Patent number: 7036587Abstract: Methods of diverting treating fluids in subterranean zones penetrated by well bores are provided. The methods basically comprise the following steps. A degradable particulate diverting material is placed in a subterranean zone that contains releasable water. A treating fluid is then introduced into the subterranean zone which is diverted by the degradable particulate diverting material therein. Thereafter, the degradable particulate diverting material is allowed to at least partially degrade in the presence of the released water in the subterranean zone.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2003Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Trinidad Munoz, Jr., Bradley L. Todd
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Patent number: 7021378Abstract: A method for retaining a treatment chemical in a subterranean formation containing hydrocarbons is disclosed. The method includes first preparing an emulsion. The emulsion contains an oil continuous phase and first and second aqueous phases. The first aqueous phase includes a treatment chemical, such as a scale inhibitor. The second aqueous phase comprises a retention enhancing chemical which is to be reacted with the treatment chemical in the subterranean formation. Preferably, the first and second aqueous phases remain generally separately dispersed and stable within the oil continuous phase prior to being introduced into the subterranean formation. The emulsion is then placed down a well bore and into the subterranean formation.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2003Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignee: Chevron U.S.A.Inventor: Gabriel Prukop
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Patent number: 7000701Abstract: The present invention involves methods and compositions for treating subterranean formations, and more specifically, relates to improved methods and compositions for degrading filter cake deposited in a subterranean formation by effecting a uniform distribution of a filter cake breaker. One embodiment of the present invention provides a weighted encapsulated breaker comprising a breaker material; and, a coating material comprising a polymer material and a filler material having a specific gravity of at least about 6.5.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2003Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Bradley L. Todd, B. Raghava Reddy
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Patent number: 6861394Abstract: A wellbore fluid including a peroxide degradable polymer and an encapsulated peroxide source. The peroxide degradable polymer may be a polysaccharide. The peroxide source may include an inorganic peroxide, including zinc and alkaline earth metal peroxides, such as magnesium peroxide. The encapsulating material may be a polymer, including enteric polymers. The release of peroxide, from peroxide sources generally, can be controlled by means of pH such that peroxide source can be activated, and peroxide released, by a change in pH. In a wellbore, this pH change can be effected by using produced fluids to lower the pH of a more basic wellbore fluid.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2001Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Assignee: M-I L.L.C.Inventors: David A. Ballard, Christopher A. Sawdon, Trevor G. Jappy
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Patent number: 6831044Abstract: Coatings for well screens that protect the screens from damage as they are inserted into the wellbore and once in the well, release reactive materials to react with and degrade potentially plugging materials such as drill solids, fluid filtercakes, fluid loss additives, and drilling fluids. The coatings can be specifically designed for individual well conditions and are comprised of a binder that either melts or dissolves within the wellbore and one or more reactive materials such as acids, enzymes, surfactants, chelants, oxidizers or free radical generators and the like which are released into the screen and the near wellbore area and which are effective in degrading or dissolving materials which could potentially plug the screen.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2002Date of Patent: December 14, 2004Inventor: Vernon George Constien
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Patent number: 6818594Abstract: Disclosed are methods and related compositions for altering the physical and chemical properties of a substrate used in hydrocarbon exploitation, such as in downhole drilling operations. In a preferred embodiment a method involves formulating a fluid, tailored to the specific drilling conditions, that contains one or more inactivated enzymes. Preferably the enzyme is inactivated by encapsulation in a pH responsive material. After the fluid has been introduced into the well bore, one or more triggering signals, such as a change in pH, is applied to the fluid that will activate or reactivate the inactivated enzyme, preferably by causing it to be released by the encapsulation material. The reactivated enzyme is capable of selectively acting upon a substrate located downhole to bring about the desired change in the chemical or physical properties of the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2000Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: M-I L.L.C.Inventors: Michael A. Freeman, Monica Norman, David A. Ballard, Ping Jiang, Kenneth C. Symes, Kishor Kumar Mistry
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Publication number: 20040200616Abstract: Fracturing fluids and methods of fracturing a subterranean formation using such fluids are provided. A fracturing fluid having a first pH is foamed by introducing a gas to the fluid. The fracturing fluid comprises a surfactant that facilitates formation of the foam at the first pH. The foamed fracturing fluid is subsequently pumped to the subterranean formation to fracture it. The pH of the fracturing fluid is then changed to a second pH at which the surfactant facilitates reduction of the foam. The fracturing fluid releases proppant contained in the fluid to the subterranean formation. The fracturing fluid is then allowed to flow back to the surface. It can be recycled by changing the pH of the fracturing fluid back to the first pH and adding a gas to the fluid, causing it to foam again.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2003Publication date: October 14, 2004Inventors: Jiten Chatterji, Bobby J. King, Karen L. King
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Patent number: 6803347Abstract: A low molecular weight, high melting point, crystalline, oil soluble additive for use in wellbore fluids is provided that is preferably a ground crystalline material of melting point over 80° C., preferably over 100° C. which is readily soluble in produced hydrocarbons such as crude oil and lighter condensates, and which exhibits a molecular weight of less than 1000, and preferably less than 500, and more preferably less than 300. Its particle size can be adjusted to bridge efficiently across different pore size formations and control its solubility rate.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2000Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Hemant K. J. Ladva, Christopher A. Sawdon, Paul R. Howard
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Patent number: 6794340Abstract: A method is disclosed for drilling a wellbore employing a drilling fluid providing the advantages of easy pumpability of a low viscosity fluid with the drill cuttings suspension capability of a highly viscous fluid. The viscosity of the fluid is also easily and quickly adjustable so that the fluid rheology may be adapted during drilling as the subterranean conditions change. These advantages are obtained by including in said fluid a reversibly crosslinkable polymer and an encapsulated crosslink activator. The crosslink activator causes crosslinking after the fluid is in the wellbore. The crosslinking is reversed at the well surface to reduce the viscosity of the fluid to enable the drill cuttings to be easily removed. Crosslink activator is added back to the fluid and the fluid is returned to the borehole. The amount of crosslink activator and/or crosslinkable polymer may be adjusted in the fluid to change the fluid rheology to conform the fluid to changes in the well conditions as monitored real time.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2002Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Philip D. Nguyen, Phillip C. Harris, Thomas E. Becker
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Patent number: 6777377Abstract: A composition for sealing porous subterranean formations comprises a mixture of a water-swellable clay and a water insoluble, water absorbent, water-swellable polymer, wherein the mixture is coated with a material that is resistant to penetration by water. The water penetration resistant material helps the delay the onset of swelling of the clay and polymer until it reaches the formations intended for sealing. Mixing the clay with the water-swellable polymer prior to coating assists in coating of the water-swellable polymer with the water penetration resistant material. The coated mixture can be suspended in an aqueous liquid, and then pumped into a subterranean cavity to seal porous formations therein.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2002Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Assignee: Wyo-Ben, Inc.Inventors: Kent R. Myers, Richard K. Brown, Stewart W. Krause, Shobha B. Parekh, Robert W. Stichman
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Patent number: 6767868Abstract: A method of fracturing a zone of a subterranean formation penetrated by a well bore is shown in which a gelable fracturing fluid is formed by combining an aqueous base fluid and a hydratable polymer. A transition metal crosslinker is added to the aqueous base fluid for crosslinking the hydratable polymer to form a gelled fluid of sufficient viscosity to facilitate fracturing of the formation. A proppant can also be added to the gelable fracturing fluid. The gelled fluid and proppant are then injected into the well bore and into contact with the formation under sufficient pressure to fracture the formation. The gelable fracturing fluid has incorporated therein a delayed release breaker comprising a complex multivalent chelating agent that is released slowly over a period of time to compete with the polymer for the transition metal crosslinker, thereby reducing the viscosity of the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2001Date of Patent: July 27, 2004Assignee: BJ Services CompanyInventors: Jeffrey Dawson, Subramanian Kesavan, Hoang Van Le
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Patent number: 6767867Abstract: The present invention provides methods of treating subterranean zones penetrated by well bores in primary well cementing operations, well completion operations, production stimulation treatments and the like. The methods are basically comprised of introducing into the subterranean zone an aqueous well treating fluid comprised of water and a water soluble polymer complex fluid loss control additive.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2002Date of Patent: July 27, 2004Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Jiten Chatterji, Roger S. Cromwell, Bobby J. King, D. Chad Brenneis, Dennis W. Gray, Ronald J. Crook, Shih-Ruey T. Chen, Valentino L. DeVito, Kevin W. Frederick, Kevin W. Smith, Randy J. Loeffler
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Patent number: 6764980Abstract: An oil field production chemical, especially a scale inhibitor, is in the form of particles thereof carrying a coating e.g. of a dispersing agent. The coating may be polymeric such as an oligomeric polyacid polyester, a polymeric alkoxylated alcohol or a fatty acid polyamine condensate or it may also be a surfactant and may be used in the form of a suspension in an inert oil, such as diesel oil or kerosene which may be injected into a subterranean formation to inhibit the formation of deposits, e.g. scale in oil wells over a longer period than compounds free of the coating.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2002Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: BP Exploration Operating Company LimitedInventors: Christopher Ian Bates, Ian Ralph Collins, Paul Derek Ravenscroft
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Patent number: 6723683Abstract: The present invention relates to biodegradable chemical compositions wherein core substrates, particularly oil well chemicals, are adsorbed onto particulate starch, particularly granular starch, providing a stable, controlled release formulation suitable for use in oil field applications. The invention further relates to the process of preparing obtaining these compositions.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2001Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: National Starch and Chemical Investment Holding CorporationInventors: Martin C. Crossman, James A. Rosie, Daniel B Solarek
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Patent number: 6722434Abstract: Improved methods of generating gas in and foaming well treating fluids introduced into a subterranean zone are provided. A method of the invention includes the steps of combining one or more gas generating chemicals with the well treating fluid and combining one or more delayed encapsulated activators having selected release times with the well treating fluid containing the gas generating chemicals so that the gas generating chemicals react with the delayed encapsulated oxidizing agent activators and gas and foam are formed in the treating fluid while the treating fluid is being pumped and after being placed in the subterranean zone.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2002Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: B. Raghava Reddy, Krishna M. Ravi, Karen Luke, Rickey L. Morgan
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Patent number: 6702022Abstract: An oil well capsule to reduce the paraffin and asphaltene which accumulate on the walls of the pipes which are used to bring the oil up from underground deposits, and a method of using the oil well capsule. An oil well capsule having a shell encapsulating a chemically active mass wherein the chemically active mass consists essentially of alkaline or alkaline earth metal.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventors: Gennady V. Kattsyn, Boris E. Kogai
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Publication number: 20030234103Abstract: It has been found that a large variety of solid chemicals available in a bulk powder form could be added to subterranean treatment fluids with delayed release when said chemicals are delivered as capsules consisting of encapsulated granulates obtained by aggregating the bulk powder under pressure to form a densified material and optionally, dry comminuting said densified material to produce granulates at the desired size. The invention is particularly useful for delivering new types of breaking agents for stimulation fluids or additives for wellbore cementing.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2002Publication date: December 25, 2003Inventors: Jesse Lee, Erik Nelson
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Patent number: 6613720Abstract: The effect of various chemical or biological agents in well treatment fluids can be delayed by sequestering the agents in the discontinuous phase of an emulsion for a period of time, before the emulsion is destabilized by exposure to at least one of: (1) a change in temperature, (2) a change in pH, (3) a change in salinity, (4) a change in alcohol concentration, (5) a change in stabilizing surfactant concentration, (6) a change in organic ion concentration, (7) a change in destabilizing surfactant concentration, (8) a change in surfactant adsorbent material concentration, (9) an ultrasonic pulse, and (10) an electrical field. Upon exposure to the emulsion destabilizing condition, the agent sequestered in the discontinuous phase of the emulsion is released into the continuous phase of the fluid composition, where it can have its intended effect.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2000Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jean Pierre Feraud, Michael D. Parris, Richard D. Hutchins, Stanley Bruce McConnell, Erik B. Nelson, Keith Dismuke
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Patent number: 6581687Abstract: A microemulsion comprising (i) an oil phase, (ii) an aqueous phase comprising an aqueous solution of a water soluble oil field or gas field production chemical or an aqueous dispersion of a water dispersible oil field or gas field production chemical and (iii) at least one surfactant, wherein the aqueous phase is distributed in the oil phase in the form of droplets having a diameter in the range 1 to 1000 mn or in the form of microdominans having at least one dimension of length, breath or thickness in the range 1 to 1000 nm.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2001Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: BP Exploration Operating Company LimitedInventors: Ian Ralph Collins, Isabelle Vervoort
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Patent number: 6554071Abstract: Encapsulated water soluble chemicals for use in controlled time release applications, methods of encapsulating the chemicals and methods of using the encapsulated chemicals are provided. The methods of encapsulating the chemicals are basically comprised of forming a first coating of a dry hydrophobic film forming material or a sparingly soluble material which provides a dry shield on the chemical and then forming a second coating of a porous cross-linked hydrophilic polymer on the first coating which prevents the substantial dissolution of the resulting encapsulated chemical for a selected period of time.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2002Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Baireddy R. Reddy, Ronald J. Crook, Dennis W. Gray, Russell M. Fitzgerald, Bradley L. Todd, Steven B. Laramay
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Patent number: 6544934Abstract: Improved methods and compositions for treating subterranean formations penetrated by well bores are provided. A method for breaking a gelled hydrocarbon fluid comprised of a hydrocarbon liquid, a ferric iron or aluminum polyvalent metal salt of a phosphonic or phosphoric acid ester is provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2001Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Robert S. Taylor, Gary P. Funkhouser
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Publication number: 20030006038Abstract: The present invention provides improved compositions and methods for cementing casing strings in deep water offshore formations penetrated by well bores. The cement composition basically comprises hydraulic cement, water, an environmentally degradable water reducing and dispersing additive, an environmentally degradable set retarding additive and an environmentally degradable compressive strength and set accelerating additive.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2002Publication date: January 9, 2003Inventors: B. Raghava Reddy, Russell M. Fitzgerald