Fracture Fluid Patents (Class 507/922)
  • Patent number: 9034804
    Abstract: Fluid treatment systems and compositions are provided including (a) at least one material including (1) at least one carboxylic acid functional group and (2) at least one sulfur-containing group selected from the group consisting of sulfonyl functional groups, sulfonate functional groups and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one friction reducing agent selected from the group consisting of guar gums, polyacrylamides, hydratable cellulosic materials, viscoelastic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. The fluid treatment systems and compositions can be used to treat aqueous systems, for example as fracturing fluids for use in fracturing subterranean formations. Methods for inhibiting formation and/or precipitation of metal oxides in an aqueous composition using the fluid treatment systems or compositions also are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignees: KROFF CHEMICAL COMPANY, NABORS COMPLETION & PRODUCTION SERVICES CO.
    Inventors: Paul Rey, Susan Rey, Michael John Seyman, Matthew E. Blauch
  • Patent number: 9034805
    Abstract: Fluid treatment systems and compositions are provided including (a) at least one material including (1) at least one carboxylic acid functional group and (2) at least one sulfur-containing group selected from the group consisting of sulfonyl functional groups, sulfonate functional groups and mixtures thereof; and (b) at least one scale control agent. The fluid treatment systems and compositions can be used to treat aqueous systems, for example as fracturing fluids for treating aqueous compositions found in subterranean formations. Methods for inhibiting formation and/or precipitation of calcium salts in an aqueous composition using the fluid treatment systems or compositions also are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignees: KROFF CHEMICAL COMPANY, NABORS COMPLETION & PRODUCTION SERVICES CO.
    Inventors: Paul Rey, Susan Rey, Michael John Seyman, David Grottenthaler, Matthew E. Blauch
  • Patent number: 9023770
    Abstract: A method of increasing the fracture complexity in a treatment zone of a subterranean formation is provided. The subterranean formation is characterized by having a matrix permeability less than 1.0 microDarcy. The method includes the step of pumping one or more fracturing fluids into a far-field region of a treatment zone of the subterranean formation at a rate and pressure above the fracture pressure of the treatment zone. A first fracturing fluid of the one or more fracturing fluids includes a first solid particulate, wherein: (a) the first solid particulate includes a particle size distribution for bridging the pore throats of a proppant pack previously formed or to be formed in the treatment zone; and (b) the first solid particulate comprises a degradable material. In an embodiment, the first solid particulate is in an insufficient amount in the first fracturing fluid to increase the packed volume fraction of any region of the proppant pack to greater than 73%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley L. Todd, Thomas D. Welton
  • Patent number: 8940667
    Abstract: Fluid treatment systems and compositions are provided including (a) at least one material including (1) at least one carboxylic acid functional group and (2) at least one sulfur-containing group selected from the group consisting of sulfonyl functional groups, sulfonate functional groups and mixtures thereof; (b) at least one friction reducing agent selected from the group consisting of guar gums, polyacrylamides, hydratable cellulosic materials, viscoelastic surfactants, and mixtures thereof; and (c) at least one scale control agent. The fluid treatment systems and compositions can be used to treat aqueous systems, for example as fracturing fluids for treating aqueous compositions found in subterranean formations. Methods for inhibiting formation and/or precipitation of metal oxides in an aqueous composition using the fluid treatment systems or compositions also are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignees: Kroff Chemical Company, Nabors Completion & Production Services Co.
    Inventors: Paul Rey, Susan Rey, Michael John Seyman, Matthew E. Blauch
  • Patent number: 8936084
    Abstract: Methods of making a degradable ball composition comprising a carboxylic acid, a fatty alcohol, a fatty acid salt, a fatty ester, or a combination thereof comprising the steps of: forming a thermoplastic mass, and allowing the thermoplastic mass to cool as to form a degradable ball that is introduced in subterranean treatments by a carrier fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Hongyu Luo, Dwight D. Fulton
  • Patent number: 8871691
    Abstract: Methods of treating flowback water from a subterranean formation penetrated by a well bore are provided, comprising: (a) providing remediated flowback water having a ferrous iron (Fe+2) ion concentration of less than about 100 milligrams of ferrous iron ion per liter of flowback water, a barium ion (Ba+2) concentration of less than about 500 milligrams of barium ion per liter of flowback water, and a calcium ion (Ca+) concentration of at least about 1,000 milligrams of calcium ion per liter of remediated flowback water; and (b) treating the flowback water with: (i) at least one friction reducing agent; and (ii) at least one scale formation inhibiting agent and/or at least one iron precipitation control agent to provide treated flowback water which can be reused as fracturing fluid in a well drilling operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Kroff Chemical Company
    Inventors: Paul Rey, Susan Rey, David Grottenthaler
  • Patent number: 8853137
    Abstract: A method of increasing the fracture complexity in a treatment zone of a subterranean formation is provided. The subterranean formation is characterized by having a matrix permeability less than 1.0 microDarcy. The method includes the step of pumping one or more fracturing fluids into a far-field region of a treatment zone of the subterranean formation at a rate and pressure above the fracture pressure of the treatment zone. A first fracturing fluid of the one or more fracturing fluids includes a first solid particulate, wherein: (a) the first solid particulate includes a particle size distribution for bridging the pore throats of a proppant pack previously formed or to be formed in the treatment zone; and (b) the first solid particulate comprises a degradable material. In an embodiment, the first solid particulate is in an insufficient amount in the first fracturing fluid to increase the packed volume fraction of any region of the proppant pack to greater than 73%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley L. Todd, Thomas D. Welton
  • Patent number: 8844629
    Abstract: Methods and compositions of fracturing formations are provided. The fracturing fluid includes an enzyme breaker that decreases the viscosity of the fracturing fluid over time. The enzyme breaker can be used in environments having a pH value ranging from about 7 to about 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Charles David Armstrong
  • Patent number: 8772206
    Abstract: The invention discloses a method comprising providing a fluid comprising a viscosifying agent in an aqueous medium; contacting the fluid with a halogenisocyanuric acid or halogenisocyanurate component; whereby the viscosity of the fluid with the halogenisocyanuric acid or halogenisocyanurate component is reduced compared to the viscosity of the fluid alone; and introducing the fluid into a well. The halogenisocyanuric acid component can be mono chloroisocyanuric acid, dichloroisocyanuric acid or trichloroisocyanuric acid. The halogenisocyanurate component can be an alkali metal monochloroisocyanurate, alkali metal dichloroisocyanurate or alkali metal trichloroisocyanurate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Andrey Mirakyan, Syed A. Ali, Curtis L. Boney, Kevin W. England, Michael D. Parris, Kristel A. Blow
  • Patent number: 8772205
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander Bismarck, Emilia M. Kot, Rajesh K. Saini
  • Patent number: 8757260
    Abstract: Methods and compositions that include a method of treating a subterranean formation comprising the steps of providing a carrier fluid comprising degradable balls that comprise a carboxylic acid, a fatty alcohol, a fatty acid salt, a fatty ester, a fatty acid salt, or a combination thereof, and introducing the carrier fluid to the subterranean formation during a treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Hongyu Luo, Dwight D. Fulton
  • Patent number: 8720569
    Abstract: A composition of a treatment fluid and method for treating a zone of well. In an embodiment, the composition includes at least: (i) an aqueous phase; (ii) at least 5 ppm iron ion in the aqueous phase; (iii) a source of at least 5 ppm iodide ion to be dissolved in the aqueous phase; (iv) a water-soluble viscosity-increasing agent dissolved in the aqueous phase; and (v) a source of an oxidative breaker to be dissolved in the aqueous phase. In an embodiment, a method of treating a zone of a subterranean formation of a well includes at least the steps of: (a) forming a treatment fluid according to the composition; and (b) introducing the treatment fluid into the zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: David Michael Loveless, Lucas Kurtis Fontenelle, Rajesh Kumar Saini
  • Patent number: 8714258
    Abstract: There is disclosed a process for transporting fracture fluid additives underground to oil and gas wells by attaching a fracture fluid additive to an ion exchange resin and flowing the ion exchange resin underground and thereafter releasing the frac fluid additives from the ion exchange resins and also there is provided the use of an ion exchange resin as a proppant and a frac fluid lubricant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignees: Lanxess Sybron Chemicals Inc., LANXESS Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Anthony P. Tirio, Phil Fatula, Michael Schelhaas
  • Patent number: 8697615
    Abstract: A composition and method for resolving reverse emulsions and complex water external emulsions using one or more polyepihalohydrins, one or more polyelectrolytes thereof, and any combination thereof is disclosed and claimed. The disclosed invention may be used in any crude oil production process where such emulsions are encountered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Nalco Company
    Inventors: Thomas N. Tekavec, Marcus D. Faust, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8418761
    Abstract: A method comprises providing a treatment fluid having a first viscosity comprising an aqueous base fluid; a viscoelastic surfactant; and a stimuli-responsive water-soluble polymer; introducing the treatment fluid into a subterranean formation; and allowing the treatment fluid viscosity to change to a second viscosity in response to a stimulus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan van Zanten, Ryan G. Ezell
  • Patent number: 8371383
    Abstract: Subterranean formations, such as tight gas formations, may be subjected to hydraulic fracturing by introducing into the formation a fracturing fluid of an aqueous fluid, a hydratable polymer, a crosslinking agent and proppant. The fracturing fluid is prepared in a blender and then pumped from the blender into the wellbore which penetrates the formation. The fluid enters the reservoir through an entrance site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Charles Elmer Bell, Harold Dean Brannon
  • Patent number: 8293687
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel additives packages, to fluid compositions including the additives, to methods of using the fluid compositions and the additives package, to methods of recovering hydrocarbons, and to petroleum products made from hydrocarbons derived from these methods. The novel additives packages may be used in a fluid composition for fracturing a subterranean. The additives package of the present invention include one or more gelling agents; one or more cross-linking agent; and one or more high temperature stabilizers; wherein the additives package further comprises one or more ingredients selected from the group consisting of a clay stabilizer, a metallic base, a cross-link retarder, and a gel breaker, and any combination thereof; and wherein the additives package optionally includes a diluent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Titan Global Oil Services Inc.
    Inventor: Wade J. Giffin
  • Patent number: 8211834
    Abstract: The invention describes improved fracturing compositions, methods of preparing fracturing compositions and methods of use. Importantly, the subject invention overcomes problems in the use of mists as an effective fracturing composition particularly having regard to the ability of a mist to transport an effective volume of proppant into a formation. As a result, the subject technologies provide an effective economic solution to using high ratio gas fracturing compositions that can be produced in a continuous (i.e. non-batch) process without the attendant capital and operating costs of current pure gas fracturing equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Calfrac Well Services Ltd.
    Inventors: Timothy Tyler Leshchyshyn, Peter William Beaton, Thomas Michael Coolen
  • Patent number: 8211296
    Abstract: A portable water treatment system and apparatus is disclosed that can effectively and efficiently treat aqueous fluids by quickly and reliably adjusting and controlling the free residual level of disinfectants, contaminants or additives through the addition of one or more treating agents such as oxidizing chemicals and/or other special-purpose additives, and that can continuously store, log, retrieve and report the related fluid composition data and other operating parameters on a real-time basis at either the use site or a remote location. A preferred use for the subject system and apparatus is managing the chemistry of disinfectant, contaminant and/or additive levels in aqueous fluids used in hydraulic fracturing operations, and controlling the free residual levels of the disinfectant or contaminants within the fluids, including fluids maintained in frac tanks during temporary cessation of a hydraulic fracturing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: NCH Ecoservices, LLC
    Inventors: Jerome F. Angelilli, Patrick D. Guccione, Jason M. Melton, Daniel Wai-tak Wong, John H. Williams
  • Patent number: 8211835
    Abstract: The invention provides an environmentally friendly composition including a friction reducer, a biocide, a scale inhibitor, and optionally a clay stabilizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Paul R. Howard, Curtis L. Boney, Shawn McCleskey Rimassa, Syed A. Ali
  • Patent number: 8183179
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Marieliz Garcia-Lopez De Victoria, John W. Still, Toan Bui
  • Patent number: 8176981
    Abstract: A composition comprising a nonionic fluorinated polymeric surfactant having a weight average molecular weight of least 100,000 grams per mole, the nonionic fluorinated polymeric surfactant comprising: divalent units independently represented by formula (I): in a range from 30% to 65% by weight, based on the total weight of the nonionic fluorinated polymeric surfactant; and divalent units independently represented by formula (II): in a range from 70% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of the nonionic fluorinated polymeric surfactant. Rf is a perfluoroalkyl group having from 3 to 4 carbon atoms; R and R2 are each independently hydrogen or alkyl of 1 to 4 carbon atoms; R1 is alkyl of 16 to 24 carbon atoms; and n is an integer from 2 to 11. Foams comprising the nonionic fluorinated polymeric surfactant and a liquid hydrocarbon and methods of making and using the foams are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Patricia M. Savu, Michael J. Sierakowski
  • Patent number: 8162048
    Abstract: A method for the controlled delivery of a fracturing fluid to a well bore comprises formulating an aqueous base fluid such that it meets or exhibits desired physical and chemical characteristics for an optimal fracturing fluid. The formulation of the aqueous base fluid max involve commingling one or more sources of waste water with a source of fresh water followed by controlled injection of one or more additives. This process is substantially completed prior to delivering the aqueous base fluid to the well site. This allows the delivery of an optimal volume of the aqueous base fluid with homogeneously blended additives to the well bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Tetra Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Enrico J. Termine, Robert I. Richie
  • Patent number: 8157010
    Abstract: A method of preparing and using a subterranean formation stabilization agent. The stabilization agent includes a guanidyl copolymer and may be admixed with a fracturing fluid and optionally brine. The stabilization agent is effective in preventing and/or reducing, for example, clay swelling and fines migration from a subterranean formation contacted with the stabilization agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Polymer Ventures, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher B. Murphy, Jon O. Fabri, Phillip B. Reilly, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8109335
    Abstract: Methods and compositions that include a method comprising: providing a treatment fluid comprising at least a plurality of degradable diverting agents that comprise at least one degradable material selected from the group consisting of a fatty alcohol, a fatty acid salt, a fatty ester, a proteinous material, and a combination thereof; and introducing the treatment fluid into a subterranean formation during a subterranean operation via a well bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Hongyu Luo, Dwight D. Fulton
  • Patent number: 8096360
    Abstract: Methods and compositions of fracturing formations are provided. The fracturing fluid includes an enzyme breaker that decreases the viscosity of the fracturing fluid over time. The enzyme breaker can be used in environments having a pH value ranging from about 7 to about 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Charles David Armstrong
  • Patent number: 8030250
    Abstract: The production of hydrocarbons from a subterranean formation is enhanced by use of a well treatment fluid which contains a carboxylated guar which may be prepared by reacting a guar source and a derivatizing agent of the formula X(CH2)nCOOH or alkali salts thereof, wherein X is selected from the group consisting of —OSO2CH3; —OSO2C2H5; —OTs, —Br, and —I and n is between from 1 to 4. The intrinsic viscosity of the carboxylated guar in 2% KCl at 27° C. is at least 750 mL/g and the degree of substitution (DS) of the carboxylated guar is typically between from about 0.02 to about 0.15.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Hong Sun, Frances DeBenedictis, Qi Qu
  • Patent number: 7998911
    Abstract: A non-toxic, environmentally friendly, green flowback aid is disclosed that reduces water blockage when injected into a fractured reservoir. The composition includes an water soluble ester of a low molecular weight alcohol and a low molecular weight organic acid, an oil soluble ester of a low molecular weight alcohol and a high molecular weight fatty acid, one or more water soluble or dispersible nonionic surfactant(s) derived from vegetable or animal sources, one or more anionic or amphoteric surfactant(s) derived from animal or vegetable based sources, and, water. Compositions for low temperature applications are also disclosed that can remain fluid down to ?41° F.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Oil Chem Technologies
    Inventors: Paul Daniel Berger, Christie Huimin Berger
  • Patent number: 7932214
    Abstract: An aqueous, foamable composition useful for formation fracturing is disclosed, which includes an ionically coupled gel system. These compositions are well suited in fracturing formation where there are insufficient or non-existent hydration units. Methods for making the compositions and methods using the foamable compositions to fracture formation with insufficient hydration units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Clearwater International, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Zamora, Sarkis R. Kakadjian, Thomas P Wilson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7902124
    Abstract: A method of treating a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore of a well having iron-containing components is carried out by introducing a treatment fluid into the wellbore of the well. The treatment fluid is formed from an aqueous solution, a mineral acid, a viscoelastic surfactant gelling agent and corrosion inhibitor system containing at least one of an alkyl, alkenyl, alicyclic or aromatic substituted aliphatic ketone and aliphatic or aromatic aldehyde. The treatment fluid is substantially free of any formic acid or precursor formic acid. In certain embodiments, the corrosion inhibitor system comprises a mixture of at least one of an alkenyl phenone or ?,?-unsaturated aldehyde, an unsaturated ketone or unsaturated aldehyde other than the alkenyl phenone and ?,?-unsaturated aldehyde, a dispersing agent, an extender and an alcohol solvent. A corrosion inhibitor intensifier may also be used in certain embodiments, which may include a mixture of cuprous iodide and cuprous chloride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Syed Ali, Javier Sanchez Reyes, Mathew M. Samuel, Francois M. Auzerais
  • Patent number: 7896075
    Abstract: Subterranean treatment fluids that exhibit enhanced particulate transport or suspension capabilities, and associated methods of use in certain subterranean treatments are provided. In one embodiment, the methods comprise: providing a linear gelled fluid that comprises an aqueous base fluid, a plurality of particulates, and a linear particulate transport enhancing additive, the linear gelled fluid having a certain yield stress, crossover frequency, and/or particulate settling time; introducing the linear gelled fluid into the subterranean formation; and using the linear gelled fluid to create or enhance at least one fracture in at least a portion of the subterranean formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold G. Walters, Jason E. Bryant, Phillip C. Harris
  • Patent number: 7893010
    Abstract: A well treatment microemulsion for use in a subterranean formation is disclosed, the microemulsion comprises a solvent blend comprising a solvent and a co-solvent; a surfactant blend comprising a surfactant, wherein the surfactant blend is able to give formation intermediate wettability properties; an alcohol; and a carrier fluid; wherein the alcohol, the solvent and surfactant blends are combined with the carrier fluid to produce the well treatment microemulsion. By intermediate wettability it is meant that the water has an advancing contact angle on the surface between 62 and 133 degrees. The associate method of treating a subterranean formation of a well with the microemulsion and the associate method of modifying the wettability of the formation with the microemulsion are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Syed Ali, Leiming Li, Paul R. Howard, Sumitra Mukhopadhyay
  • Patent number: 7857051
    Abstract: A composition and method for improving the fluid efficiency of many oilfield treatments is given. The composition is a solid additive, in a viscosified fluid, in a size range small enough that it enters formation pores; it optionally bridges there to form an internal filter cake, and then decomposes to provide a breaker for the viscosifying system for the fluid. Examples of suitable additives include waxes, polyesters, polycarbonates, polyacetals, polymelamines, polyvinyl chlorides, and polyvinyl acetates. Degradation of the additive may be accelerated or delayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Carlos Abad, Jesse C. Lee, Philip F. Sullivan, Erik Nelson, Yiyan Chen, Belgin Baser, Lijun Lin
  • Patent number: 7855169
    Abstract: The present invention includes composition having a nonionic, fluorinated polymeric surfactant, water and solvent. Embodiments of compositions according to the present invention are useful, for example, for recovering hydrocarbons from subterranean clastic formations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignees: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System, 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Gary A. Pope, Mukul M. Sharma, Viren Kumar, Jimmie R. Baran, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7776798
    Abstract: This invention relates to the use of alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, and formulations thereof, as thickening agents in aqueous based fluids, especially those used in oil field applications. The quaternary ammonium salts of the present invention exhibit improved gelling characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Akzo Nobel Surface Chemistry LLC
    Inventors: Shankar Subramanian, Cenk Burgazli, Yun-Peng Zhu, Shawn Zhu, Dave Feuerbacher
  • Patent number: 7772162
    Abstract: The present invention includes composition having a nonionic, fluorinated polymeric surfactant, water and solvent. Embodiments of compositions according to the present invention are useful, for example, for recovering hydrocarbons from subterranean elastic formations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignees: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System, 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Gary A. Pope, Mukul M. Sharma, Viren Kumar, Jimmie R. Baran
  • Patent number: 7677311
    Abstract: A composition and method for improving the fluid efficiency of many oilfield treatments is given. The composition is a solid additive, in a viscosified fluid, in a size range small enough that it enters formation pores; it optionally bridges there to form an internal filter cake, and then decomposes to provide a breaker for the viscosifying system for the fluid. Examples of suitable additives include waxes, polyesters, polycarbonates, polyacetals, polymelamines, polyvinyl chlorides, and polyvinyl acetates. Degradation of the additive may be accelerated or delayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Carlos Abad, Jesse C. Lee, Philip F. Sullivan, Erik Nelson, Yiyan Chen, Belgin Baser, Lijun Lin
  • Patent number: 7662753
    Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions for treating subterranean formations. A treatment fluid that comprises an aqueous liquid, and a degradable surfactant derived from a degradable polymer is provided. Also provided are emulsified treatment fluids and foamed treatment fluids that comprise degradable surfactants derived from degradable polymers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Rajesh K. Saini
  • Patent number: 7608567
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for treating subterranean formations. A method, that comprises providing a treatment fluid that comprises an aqueous fluid, and a degradable surfactant derived from a degradable polymer; and introducing the treatment fluid into a well bore that penetrates the subterranean formation, is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Rajesh K. Saini
  • Patent number: 7585817
    Abstract: Compositions comprise nonionic fluorinated polymeric surfactants and solvent. The solvent comprises: at least one of a polyol or polyol ether, wherein the polyol and polyol ether have from 2 to 25 carbon atoms; and at least one monohydroxy alcohol, ether, or ketone having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a mixture thereof, wherein the solvent is capable of at least one of solubilizing or displacing brine or condensate in the hydrocarbon-bearing clastic formation. Embodiments of the compositions are useful in recovery of hydrocarbons from hydrocarbon-bearing clastic formations that contain brine and/or condensate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignees: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System, 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Gary A. Pope, Jimmie R. Baran, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7575690
    Abstract: Hydrocarbon stimulation fluids are often used to increase the permeability and productivity of oil and gas reservoirs. The fluid itself is made up of a mixture of hydrocarbons and various chemicals designed to induce gel formation and gel breaking. The successful removal of these chemicals from the fluid has been achieved, through a process of acid-washing and filtration. This will allow the fluid to be re-used many times for further fracturing processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Synoil Fluids Holdings Inc.
    Inventors: Shaun T. Mesher, Amanda G. Jarvis
  • Patent number: 7500519
    Abstract: Provided are methods of modifying the stress-activated reactivity of subterranean fracture faces and other surfaces in subterranean formations. In one embodiment, the methods comprise: providing a treatment fluid that comprises a base fluid and a surface-treating reagent capable of modifying the stress-activated reactivity of a mineral surface in a subterranean formation; introducing the treatment fluid into a subterranean formation; and allowing the surface-treating reagent to modify the stress-activated reactivity of at least a portion of a mineral surface in the subterranean formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim D. Weaver, Billy F. Slabaugh, Robert E. Hanes, Jr., Diederik van Batenburg, Mark A. Parker, Matthew E. Blauch, Neil A. Stegent, Philip D. Nguyen, Thomas D. Welton
  • Patent number: 7427584
    Abstract: Treating compositions containing mutual solvents suitable for forming and maintaining single-phase aqueous fluid treating compositions containing very high concentrations of acids and/or chelating agents are described. Methods of use of these treating compositions for dissolving and removing scale and formation matrix material in oil-field treatments such as stimulation and remediation are given.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Wayne Frenier, Mark Brady
  • Patent number: 7399732
    Abstract: An improved method and fracturing fluid for hydraulic fracturing of a subterranean formation, the fracturing fluid including a surfactant, a water soluble or dispersible anionic organic salt, an acid and a low molecular weight organic solvent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignees: Calfrac Well Services Ltd., Chemergy Ltd.
    Inventors: Travis L. Allan, Junad Amin, Alan K. Olson, Ronald G. Pierce
  • Patent number: 7395863
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Xiaolan Wang, Qi Qu
  • Patent number: 7378378
    Abstract: A method for increasing the rate of shear rehealing of fluids made with cationic, zwitterionic, and amphoteric viscoelastic surfactant fluid systems by adding an effective amount of a rheology enhancer package containing, for example a polyethylene glycol-polypropylene glycol block copolymer and a polynaphthalene sulfonate. The rheology enhancer package allows viscoelastic surfactant fluids to be used at lower viscoelastic surfactant concentrations in certain applications, for example certain oilfield treatments, for example fracturing and gravel packing. Preferred surfactants are betaines and quaternary amines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Yiyan Chen, Jesse C. Lee, Fang Li, Manilal Dahanayake, Robert Tillotson, Allwyn Colaco
  • Patent number: 7358215
    Abstract: This invention relates to the use of alkyl amido quaternary ammonium salts, and formulations thereof, as thickening agents in aqueous based fluids, especially those used in oil field applications. The quaternary ammonium salts of the present invention exhibit improved gelling characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Akzo Nobel Surface Chemistry LLC
    Inventors: Shankar Subramanian, Cenk Burgazli, Yun-Peng Zhu, Shawn Zhu, Dave Feuerbacher
  • Patent number: 7343976
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides methods of treating a subterranean formation with a viscosified treatment fluid comprising combining water, a carbonyl-containing first compound, and an amine-containing second compound; wherein the carbonyl-containing first compound comprises at least one carbonyl moiety and is either a gelling agent or a derivatizing agent, and wherein the amine-containing second compound comprises at least one amine moiety and is a gelling agent when the carbonyl-containing first compound is a derivatizing agent and is a derivatizing agent when the carbonyl-containing first compound is a gelling agent; allowing at least one carbonyl moiety from the first compound and at least one amine moiety from the second compound to form a derivatizing linkage and create a derivatized gelling agent; and, placing the viscosified treatment fluid into a portion of a subterranean formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. R. Segura
  • Patent number: 7314850
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert S. Taylor, Gary P. Funkhouser
  • Patent number: RE41585
    Abstract: A method for controlling the rheology of aqueous systems, particularly for those intended for underground use, includes injecting an aqueous fluid containing a surfactant gelling agent into the system. The surfactant gelling agents are, for example, fatty aliphatic amidoamine oxides, salts of an alkoxylated monoamine with an aromatic dicarboxylic acid, and salts of an alkyldiamine with an aromatic dicarboxylic acid. The surfactant gelling agents can be absorbed onto particulate supports to facilitate delivery of the gelling agent. The additives may be incorporated in the viscoelastic fluid to tailor its use in hydraulic fluids, drilling muds, fracture fluids, and in applications such as permeability modification, gravel packing, cementing, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventors: Robert F. Farmer, Andress K. Doyle, Glenda Del Carmen Vale, James F. Gadberry, Michael D. Hoey, Randy E. Dobson