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Title: Method of condensing vaporized water in situ to treat tar sands formations

Patent ·
OSTI ID:1014493

Methods for treating a tar sands formation are described herein. Methods may include heating at least a section of a hydrocarbon layer in the formation from a plurality of heaters located in the formation. Heat may be allowed to transfer from the heaters to at least a first portion of the formation. Conditions may be controlled in the formation so that water vaporized by the heaters in the first portion is selectively condensed in a second portion of the formation. At least some of the fluids may be produced from the formation.

Research Organization:
Shell Oil Company (Houston, TX)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-00OR22725
Assignee:
Shell Oil Company (Houston, TX)
Patent Number(s):
7,677,314
Application Number:
US Patent Application 11/975,737
OSTI ID:
1014493
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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