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Title: Process for selectively reducing the permeability of a subterranean sandstone formation

Patent ·
OSTI ID:7127091

A caustic aqueous solution containing an amphoteric metal ion is injected into a subterranean sandstone formation. The caustic solution reacts with the sandstone formation to form caustic soluble silicates. The amphoteric metal ion reacts with the caustic soluble silicates to form an amphoteric metal silicate precipitate, which preferentially reduces the permeability of the relatively highly permeable zones of the formation. This improves conformance and flow profiles of fluids subsequently injected into or produced from the formation. 12 claims.

Assignee:
Marathon Oil Co.
Patent Number(s):
US 4301867
OSTI ID:
7127091
Resource Relation:
Patent File Date: Filed date 30 Jun 1980
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English