Well Cleaning Fluid Patents (Class 507/927)
  • Patent number: 11485915
    Abstract: Ionic liquid containing compositions may be used in the production, recovery and refining of oil and gas. In addition, they may be used to treat cooling water and/or to inhibit and/or prevent corrosion of metals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Jerry Weers, Mary Jane Felipe
  • Patent number: 11434151
    Abstract: a method of treating aqueous wellbore fluids, comprising (a) converting one or more multivalent cations in a multivalent cation-containing aqueous fluid to form a mixture comprising one or more insoluble compounds and a treated aqueous fluid, (b) separating the treated aqueous fluid from the one or more insoluble compounds, and (c) contacting the treated aqueous fluid with a sulfide-containing aqueous fluid to form a compatibilized aqueous fluid, wherein the multivalent cation-containing aqueous fluid, the sulfide-containing aqueous fluid, or both were recovered from wellbores prior to (c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Chunli Li, Leiming Li, Johnathan Scott Hazlewood
  • 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: 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: 8877689
    Abstract: Of the many compositions and methods provided herein, one example composition includes a treatment fluid comprising: an aqueous fluid; and a tar stabilizing polymer comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of a styrene polymer, an acrylate polymer, a styrene-acrylate polymer, and any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Haliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip Wayne Livanec, Greg Paul Perez
  • Patent number: 8741816
    Abstract: Of the many compositions and methods provided herein, one method includes a method comprising: contacting tar resident in a well bore with a tar stabilizing polymer comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of a styrene polymer, an acrylate polymer, a styrene-acrylate polymer, and any combination thereof; and allowing the tar stabilizing polymer to interact with the tar to at least partially reduce the tendency of the tar to adhere to a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip Wayne Livanec, Greg Paul Perez
  • Patent number: 8691732
    Abstract: A water-based fluid, containing: a non-ionic surfactant, which is stable in a temperature range from 10 to 90° C. and soluble in water; and a salt, wherein the non-ionic surfactant contains an alkyl polyglucoside selected from the group consisting of a C8 alkyl polyglucoside, a C10 alkyl polyglucoside, and mixtures thereof, and the salt is present, and is present in an amount up to 60%. In addition, a process for preventing the formation of a W/O inverse emulsion or resolving a W/O inverse emulsion that has already formed in an oil well in which an oil-based mud has been employed by injecting the water-based fluid into the oil well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: ENI S.p.A.
    Inventors: Lucilla Del Gaudio, Paola Albonico, Sandra Cobianco, Chiara Neva Emiliani, Giuseppe Ripa
  • Patent number: 8653008
    Abstract: A method for delivering a scale treatment agent to a hydrocarbon producing system. The method includes the steps of contacting the system with a foam comprising the scale treatment agent, and shutting the scale treatment agent in the system for at least 0.5 hour.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignees: Champion Technologies Ltd., Halliburton Energy Services, Inc., StatoilHydro ASA
    Inventors: Olav Martin Selle, Amare Mebratu, Harry Montgomerie, Ping Chen, Thomas Hagen
  • Patent number: 8242059
    Abstract: Oil-based wellbore fluid in the form of an emulsion having a continuous phase containing an oil and, dispersed therein, a first dispersed liquid phase and a second separate dispersed liquid phase. The first dispersed liquid phase is a brine phase containing at least 5% by weight of a dissolved salt or a mixture of salts, and the second dispersed liquid phase is a polar organic liquid which is insoluble or sparingly soluble in the brine and contains the first dispersed liquid phase, but is soluble in pure water. The second dispersed liquid phase is in the form of droplets having an average diameter of not less than 5 microns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: BP Exploration Operating Company Limited
    Inventor: Christopher Alan Sawdon
  • Patent number: 8227382
    Abstract: A method of cleaning a wellbore drilled with a drilling fluid that forms a filter cake that includes emplacing a breaker fluid into the wellbore, the breaker fluid comprising: an aqueous fluid; a fragmentation agent; and an amphoteric chemotrope; and shutting in the well for a period of time sufficient to initiate breaking of the filter cake is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: M-I L.L.C.
    Inventors: Eugene Dakin, Andrey Reznichenko, Hui Zhang
  • Patent number: 8222455
    Abstract: Viscoelastic compositions are disclosed herein containing an effective amount of one or more random or structurally defined polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds for controlling the viscoelasticity of the composition. In one aspect, the present technology provides polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds that comprise bis-quaternary compound. The bis-quaternary compounds of the present technology can be symmetric or dissymmetric. In another aspect, the present technology provides viscoelastic well bore treatment fluids comprising water, and at least one polycationic quaternary ammonium compound that comprises a bis-quaternary compound. In another aspect, the present technology provides polycationic carboxylates. Preferred viscoelastic compositions of the present technology maintain viscoelasticity at a temperature greater than about 80° C., preferably greater than about 100° C. or 110° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Stepan Company
    Inventor: Paul Knox
  • 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: 8148303
    Abstract: A method comprises providing a drilling fluid comprising: an aqueous fluid; and a microemulsion surfactant; and drilling a well bore in a subterranean formation comprising an oleaginous fluid using the drilling fluid, wherein the microemulsion surfactant forms a microemulsion with the oleaginous fluid within the well bore. In accordance with the method, the subterranean formation has a retained producibility greater than about 50%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan Van Zanten, David Horton, Per-Bjarte Tanche-Larsen
  • Patent number: 8071511
    Abstract: A method for treating a wellbore tubular or subsurface completion equipment to help remove scale is provided. In general, the method comprises the steps of: (A) determining the likelihood of the presence of carbonate scale in the wellbore tubular or subsurface completion equipment; (B) forming or providing a treatment fluid comprising: (i) water; (ii) a chelating agent capable of forming a heterocyclic ring that contains a metal ion attached to at least two nonmetal ions; and (iii) a viscosity-increasing agent; and (C) introducing the treatment fluid into the wellbore tubular or the subsurface completion equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas D. Welton, Richard W. Pauls
  • Patent number: 7947633
    Abstract: Viscoelastic compositions are disclosed herein containing an effective amount of one or more random or structurally defined polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds for controlling the viscoelasticity of the composition. In at least one aspect, the present technology provides polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds comprising dissymmetric bis-quaternary compounds. In another aspect, the present technology provides viscoelastic compositions comprising polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds that comprise dissymmetric bis-quaternary compounds. In yet another aspect, the present technology provides polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds comprising a carboxylate functional polycationic quaternary ammonium compound. Preferred viscoelastic compositions of the present technology maintain viscoelasticity at a temperature greater than about 80° C., preferably greater than about 100° C. or about 110° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Stepan Company
    Inventor: Paul Knox
  • 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: 7884057
    Abstract: Viscoelastic compositions are disclosed herein containing an effective amount of one or more random or structurally defined polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds for controlling the viscoelasticity of the composition. In at least one aspect, the present technology provides polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds comprising bis-quaternary compounds. In another aspect, the present technology provides viscoelastic compositions that comprise polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds comprising bis-quaternary compounds. Preferred viscoelastic compositions of the present technology maintain viscoelasticity at a temperature greater than about 80° C., preferably greater than about 100° C. or about 110° C. when the amount of the one or polycationic quaternary compounds is less than about 10% by weight based on the total weight of the composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Stepan Company
    Inventor: Paul Knox
  • Patent number: 7879769
    Abstract: Viscoelastic compositions are disclosed herein containing an effective amount of one or more random or structurally defined polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds for controlling the viscoelasticity of the composition. In one aspect, the present technology provides polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds that comprise bis-quaternary compound. The bis-quaternary compounds of the present technology can be symmetric or dissymmetric. In another aspect, the present technology provides viscoelastic well bore treatment fluids comprising water, and at least one polycationic quaternary ammonium compound that comprises a bis-quaternary compound. In another aspect, the present technology provides polycationic carboxylates. Preferred viscoelastic compositions of the present technology maintain viscoelasticity at a temperature greater than about 80° C., preferably greater than about 100° C. or 110° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Stepan Company
    Inventor: Paul Knox
  • Patent number: 7776796
    Abstract: Methods for treating wellbores using fluids containing a sphingan heteropolysaccharide which contributes viscosity stability and a decrease in friction pressure. Some methods are clean-out operations using recyclable-viscosity fluids containing at least a sphingan heteropolysaccharide and an optional salt. Others include methods of pumping fluids incorporating sphingan heteropolysaccharides to reduce pumping frictional pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Alexander Shapovalov, Alejandro Pena, Bernhard Lungwitz, Rene Schuurman
  • Patent number: 7772165
    Abstract: Viscoelastic compositions are disclosed herein containing an effective amount of one or more random or structurally defined polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds for controlling the viscoelasticity of the composition. In at least one aspect, the present technology provides polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds comprising dissymmetric bis-quaternary compounds. In another aspect, the present technology provides viscoelastic compositions comprising polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds that comprise dissymmetric bis-quaternary compounds. In yet another aspect, the present technology provides polycationic quaternary ammonium compounds comprising a carboxylate functional polycationic quaternary ammonium compound. Preferred viscoelastic compositions of the present technology maintain viscoelasticity at a temperature greater than about 80° C., preferably greater than about 100° C. or about 110° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Stephan Company
    Inventor: Paul Knox
  • Patent number: 7544639
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for the treatment of hydrogen sulfide. The method preferably includes forming a solvent-surfactant blend, preparing a microemulsion by combining the solvent-surfactant blend with a carrier fluid and contacting the hydrogen sulfide with the microemulsion. In preferred embodiments, the solvent-surfactant blend includes a surfactant and a solvent selected from the group consisting of terpenes and alkyl or aryl esters of short chain alcohols.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: CESt Chemical
    Inventors: John T. Pursley, David L. Holcomb, Glenn S. Penny
  • Patent number: 7468469
    Abstract: A dissolved oxygen releasing blend is disclosed utilizing magnesium peroxide blended with powdered Bentonite and/or vegetable oil. The Bentonite (or other clay material) reduces the hydraulic conductivity of magnesium peroxide, thereby reducing the rate of magnesium peroxide disassociation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: E.S.P. Environmental Service Products
    Inventors: Robert Hollabaugh, I. Richard Schaffner, Jr.
  • 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: 7398824
    Abstract: A formulation containing a copolymer derived from a cationic monomer effectively inhibits and controls the formation of inorganic scales. Suitable copolymers include those comprising an acrylamide unit and a quaternary ammonium salt group, and optionally an acrylate and/or nitrogen heterocyclic monomer including those wherein the quaternary ammonium salt is a unit of the formula: wherein R is methyl or hydrogen; R4 is a C1 to C6 alkyl group, optionally substituted with halogen, hydroxyl and alkoxy groups, X is halogen; and R1, R2 and R3 are independently selected from the group consisting of alkyl and alkoxy groups. Suitable nitrogen heterocyclic compounds include N-vinylpyrrolidone, N-vinylformamide, N-vinylacetamide, N-vinylcaprolactam, N-vinylimidazole and N-vinylpyridine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Xiaolan Wang, Qi Qu, Mingjie Ke
  • Patent number: 7270180
    Abstract: A formulation containing a copolymer derived from a cationic monomer effectively inhibits and controls the formation of inorganic scales. The formulation has particular application in the removal of zinc sulfide and iron sulfide scales formed when zinc bromide brines are used as completion fluids. The copolymer exhibit high solubility in high-density brines, such as zinc bromide brines. The polymers may be introduced into an oil or gas well as a portion of a carrier fluid or with brine. The preferred copolymer for use in the invention contains an acrylamide unit and a diallyldimethylammonium salt and, optionally, an acrylic acid or a salt thereof. The weight average molecular weight of such inhibitor copolymers is generally between from about 500,000 to about 5,000,000.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Mingjie Ke, Qi Qu
  • Patent number: 7258170
    Abstract: Methods of increasing the permeability of a portion of a subterranean formation may comprise providing a remediation fluid capable of decreasing the tackiness of a tackifying agent, the remediation fluid comprising a surfactant; introducing the remediation fluid into the portion of the subterranean formation, wherein a plurality of tackified particulates at least partially coated with formation fines are located within the portion; and allowing at least a substantial portion of the formation fines to detach from the plurality of tackified particulates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip D. Nguyen, Jimmie D. Weaver
  • Patent number: 7211550
    Abstract: An aqueous-based composition containing cesium formate and at least one chelating agent is described. Methods of removing scaling deposits, which may include alkaline earth metal sulfates, present on surfaces, including porous media, such as alkaline earth metal sulfate buildup in a well bore, is also described, wherein the method includes contacting the alkaline earth metal sulfate with the compositions of the present invention to remove the scaling deposits. A completion fluid containing at least one alkali metal formate, at least one acid and/or at least one chelating agent, and optionally at least one surfactant or mutual solvent is also described. Methods of removing a filter cake from a well bore surface, which may include weighting agents such as calcium carbonate, is also described, wherein the method includes contacting the filter cake with the completion fluid of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Cabot Corporation
    Inventors: William J. Benton, Neal F. Magri, James R. VonKrosigk, Michael T. Pelletier
  • Patent number: 7159655
    Abstract: A formulation containing a copolymer derived from a cationic monomer effectively inhibits and controls the formation of inorganic scales. The formulation has particular application in the removal of zinc sulfide and iron sulfide scales formed when zinc bromide brines are used as completion fluids. The copolymer exhibit high solubility in high-density brines, such as zinc bromide brines. The polymers may be introduced into an oil or gas well as a portion of a carrier fluid or with brine. The preferred copolymer for use in the invention contains an acrylamide unit and a diallyldimethylammonium salt and, optionally, an acrylic acid or a salt thereof. The weight average molecular weight of such inhibitor copolymers is generally between from about 500,000 to about 5,000,000.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventors: Mingjie Ke, Qi Qu
  • Patent number: 7131495
    Abstract: A method to synthesize a chlorine dioxide block remover in a well is described. The method includes dissolving a chlorate aqueous solution and some acidic substances in water and to produce a hydrogen ion. The chlorate aqueous solution and acidic substances are quickly injected into the well by an injection pump, so they react with each other and produce chlorine dioxide. The synthesis of the chlorine block remover in the well removes oil layer blocks induced by polymers and microbes, while reducing the risk of explosion caused by leaked chlorine dioxide, and reducing the corrosion of equipment and pipes caused by chlorine dioxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Inventors: Zhanyuan Hao, Dong Hao
  • Patent number: 7128149
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for determining suitable displacement fluids for use in subterranean cementing operations, and methods of cementing that use such displacement fluids, are provided. Examples of methods include methods of water-wetting an annulus in a subterranean formation having an oleaginous-external/aqueous-internal fluid disposed on at least a portion of one or more surfaces of the annulus. Another example of a method is a method of using an inverter fluid in a subterranean formation that includes a tubular string disposed therein having an annular region adjacent the outer surface of the tubular string, at least part of the annular region having an oleaginous-external/aqueous-internal fluid on a surface thereof. Another example of a method of the present invention is a method of identifying an inverter fluid to use for inverting an oleaginous-external/aqueous-internal fluid in a subterranean formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Heathman, Sears T. Dealy, James H. Cantrell, Dennis W. Gray
  • Patent number: 7080688
    Abstract: Improved methods and compositions for degrading filter cake deposited in a subterranean formation are provided. These methods and compositions utilize particulates coated with acid-releasing degradable material wherein the released acid is used to degrade a filter cake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley L. Todd, Ronald J. Powell
  • Patent number: 7028776
    Abstract: Compositions and methods for the inhibition of salt formation in oil and gas wells are disclosed. In particular, nitrilotriacetamide and its salts are effective at treating existing salt formations, and in inhibiting formation of new deposits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: BJ Services Company
    Inventor: Joseph W. Kirk
  • Patent number: 7021377
    Abstract: Methods are provided for removing filter cake containing a bridging agent soluble in a carboxylic acid salt from a formation fluids producing zone penetrated by a well bore. The methods basically comprise the steps of introducing in an aqueous carrier liquid a carboxylic acid ester and a base for slowly catalyzing the hydrolysis of the ester and forming a carboxylic acid salt therewith into the producing zone, and allowing the base to catalyze the hydrolysis of the carboxylic acid ester to form the carboxylic acid salt so that the carboxylic acid salt dissolves the bridging agent and the filter cake is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradey L. Todd, Ronald J. Powell
  • Patent number: 6995120
    Abstract: Barium sulfate and/or calcium carbonate scale inhibitor composition composed of a water-soluble polymer having incorporated phosphate functionality, the polymer being formed from at least one ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid monomer, at least one ethylenically unsaturated vinyl sulfonate monomer, or a mixture thereof. The scale inhibitor composition can be used as a means of detecting inhibitor composition in downhole and topside oilfield treatments by means that are faster and more accurate than turbidometric measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: National Starch and Chemical Investment Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Martin Crossman, Stuart Peter Robert Holt
  • Patent number: 6988552
    Abstract: A method to clean the wellbore and the near wellbore formation adjacent to the wellbore of the gas bearing formation adjacent to the production zone of the wellbore. The method includes the steps of injecting a treatment liquid containing from 84.5 to 100% of liquid carbon dioxide, 0 to 15% of an alcohol, and 0 to 0.5% of a surfactant into the well in a predetermined quantity and maintaining the pressure of the treatment liquid in the near wellbore formation of the gas bearing formation below the fracturing pressure of the formation, releasing the pressure on the wellbore and allowing the liquid CO2 to vaporize and other materials to blow out of the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: ConocoPhillips Company
    Inventors: Dennis Ray Wilson, Thomas A. Bell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6984610
    Abstract: Acid based micro-emulsions are disclosed comprising water, an acid blend, an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, a co-solvent, a solvent and an oxidizer. The micro-emulsions have particular utility in cleaning oil sludges and drilling mud residues from well cuttings, well formations and down hole and surface oil well drilling and production equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Integrity Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. VonKrosigk, William M. Duncan
  • Patent number: 6924254
    Abstract: Viscous well treating fluids and methods of treating subterranean zones penetrated by well bores are provided. The viscous fluids are basically comprised of water, a gelling agent and a delayed viscosity breaker comprising pentanedione peroxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley L. Todd
  • Patent number: 6924253
    Abstract: A method for treating a wellbore (or well casing) and the contiguous wellbore area to remove scale (mineral deposits comprised of, e.g., BaSO4, CaCO3, etc.) in the context of hydrocarbon recovery and other applications is disclosed, said method including contacting the scale with a fluid comprised of an ionic liquid or liquids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventors: Bentley J. Palmer, Diankui Fu, Roger Card, Matthew J. Miller
  • Patent number: 6911417
    Abstract: A composition, formulation, and method for removing water from a near-wellbore portion of a subterranean formation containing a crude oil and penetrated by a wellbore. The formulation contains alkylpolyglycoside, ethoxylated alcohol and linear alkyl alcohols. The composition contains a hydrocarbonaceous liquid, alkylpolyglycoside, ethoxylated alcohol and linear alkyl alcohol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: ConocoPhillips Company
    Inventors: Albert F. Chan, Michael D. Erwin
  • Publication number: 20040256104
    Abstract: A method to clean the wellbore and the near wellbore formation adjacent to the wellbore of the gas bearing formation adjacent to the production zone of the wellbore. The method includes the steps of injecting a treatment liquid containing from 84.5 to 100% of liquid carbon dioxide, 0 to 15% of an alcohol, and 0 to 0.5% of a surfactant into the well in a predetermined quantity and maintaining the pressure of the treatment liquid in the near wellbore formation of the gas bearing formation below the fracturing pressure of the formation, releasing the pressure on the wellbore and allowing the liquid CO2 to vaporize and other materials to blow out of the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Applicant: CONOCOPHILLIPS COMPANY
    Inventors: Dennis Ray Wilson, Thomas A. Bell
  • Publication number: 20040216875
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for treating subterranean zones penetrated by well bores utilizing environmentally safe viscous fluids. A method of the invention comprises the following steps. A viscous treating fluid composition is provided comprised of water, a viscosity increasing polymer and a water soluble delayed polymer breaker that comprises a mixture of sodium perborate tetrahydrate and a solubility increasing boron complex or ester forming compound. The viscous treating fluid composition is introduced into the subterranean zone wherein the viscous treating fluid is allowed to break into a thin fluid of reduced viscosity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: Bradley L. Todd, Keith A. Frost
  • Patent number: 6774090
    Abstract: Compositions and methods for treating systems, especially oil and/or gas wells, characterized by metal sulfide deposits are provided. Compositions according to the invention generally comprise a thioacid, an amine salt, and a diphosphonic acid. Methods according to the invention may comprise introducing such composition into a system characterized by metal sulfide deposits, or alternatively, introducing into the system individual quantities of the composition components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Jacam Chemicals, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Gene H. Zaid, Beth Ann Wolf
  • Patent number: 6762155
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for removing a water-based drilling fluid from surfaces in a well bore and leaving the surfaces water-wet. A method of the invention basically comprises the following steps. A water-based drilling fluid removal solution comprised of water and a mixture of a sulfonated kraft lignin salt and an N-methyl-N-oleyltaurine salt dissolved therein is provided. The drilling fluid is displaced from the well bore and the well bore surfaces are contacted with the removal solution to thereby remove the drilling fluid from the surfaces and make the surfaces water-wet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jiten Chatterji, Sears T. Dealy, Ronald J. Crook
  • Patent number: 6762154
    Abstract: Present invention relates to high brine carrier fluid, said carrier fluid selected from the group consisting of organic acids, organic acid salts, inorganic salts and combination of one or more organic acids or organic acid salts, a co-surfactant and an amount of a zwitterionic surfactant. The invention also relates to methods of treating a subterranean wellbore, including drilling, hydraulic fracturing, gravel placement, scale removing, mud cake removing, using said high brine carrier fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Bernhard Lungwitz, Mark E. Brady, Sylvie Daniel, Mehmet Parlar, Colin J. Price-Smith, Elizabeth Morris
  • Patent number: 6723683
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: National Starch and Chemical Investment Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Martin C. Crossman, James A. Rosie, Daniel B Solarek
  • Patent number: 6720291
    Abstract: Improved mud additive compositions are provided which are especially formulated to control hole enlargement due to salt bed erosion during drilling, and to assist in solubilization of deposited salt during well operations. The compositions include a first ingredient such as sodium or potassium ferrocyanide and mixtures thereof, and a second ingredient such as the a phosphonic acid, alkali or alkaline earth metal phosphonic acid salts, or mixtures thereof. The first ingredient is generally present at a level of from about 50-95% by weight in the particulate, dilutable form of the invention, whereas the second ingredient is present at a level of from about 5-50% by weight. The compositions hereof may be added to drilling mud during drilling operations or to fresh water for removing salt depositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Jacam Chemicals, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Gene H. Zaid, Beth Ann Wolf
  • Patent number: 6686323
    Abstract: A surfactant composition for use in well treatment, particularly for removing oil-based mud deposits from a well prior to cementing, comprises an alkylpolyglucoside in a solution of a mutual solvent for water and hydrocarbon. The composition can be used to formulate a chemical wash by dissolving the composition at a concentration of about 1%-10% (e.g. 5%) by weight in water or brine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Frederik Nilsson, Sylwia Komocki
  • Patent number: 6672388
    Abstract: Disclosed is a process for cleaning wellbore walls, tubing or casings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Lamberti USA, Inc.
    Inventors: William M. McGregor, Dario Fomara, Tullio Pellizzon, Giuseppe Li Bassi
  • Patent number: 6653260
    Abstract: An acidizing composition and a method of acidizing a hydrocarbon bearing subterranean formation in the presence of ferric ions are provided. The acidizing composition includes a mineral acid solution, an electron donor agent, a primary electron transfer agent and a secondary electron transfer agent. The primary electron transfer agent is a source of vanadium ions. The secondary electron transfer agent is a source of iodide ion or iodine. The electron donor agent and primary and secondary electron transfer agents function together to reduce ferric ion present in the mineral acid solution to ferrous ion which in turn prevents ferric hydroxide and/or free sulfur from precipitating out of the solution and reduces the formation of sludge in crude oil in the formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael M. Brezinski