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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Method for fracturing subterranean formations

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5004173
A new fracturing method employs a fracturing fluid. Briefly, the method comprises the step of injecting into a subterranean formation surrounding a well bore, a fluid having suspended therein particles of petroleum coke; applying sufficient pressure to the fluid to open a fracture in the formation; and thereafter producing from the formation. The petroleum coke preferably should have a wide particle size distribution, the largest particles being smaller than 100 mesh and the smallest particles smaller than 400 mesh. The petroleum coke particles, preferable, should be used in a fluid containing a gelling agent such as an oil-soluble or water-soluble polymer. (6 claims)
Assignee:
Esso Production Research Co.
Patent Number(s):
US 3700032
OSTI ID:
5004173
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English