Method for creating a permeable-fragmented zone within an oil shale formation
A method is described for creating a permeable zone in a subterranean oil shale formation by utilizing a number of strategically placed explosive devices of varying energy. A very high energy explosive, such as a nuclear device, is first exploded; then a number of explosive devices of lesser energy, nuclear or non-nuclear, spaced radially from the high energy explosive, are detonated between the time the initial cavity within the oil shale formation begins to expand radially outward as a result of the detonation of the high energy explosive, and the time at which a chimney of rubble of the fragmented oil shale formation is formed by the collapsing of the cavity roof of the oil shale formation. (9 claims)
- Assignee:
- Shell Oil Co.
- Patent Number(s):
- US 3448801
- OSTI ID:
- 5431652
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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