Method and composition for fracturing permeable earth formations
In a method for fracturing a permeable subsurface formation, a fracturing agent is pumped into a well bore. The fracturing agent consists of catalytically cross- linked polyvinyl pyrrolidone polymers and sand grains. The rheological properties of these compositions are such that they can be easily pumped down the borehole and forced into the permeable formation under pressure so that gelation of the compositions in the treated formation will occur within a reasonable time, and the gelled composition under pressure will cause fracturing of the treated formation. After a reasonable period of time in the formation, the gel liquefies leaving the fractures in the formation propped open with sand grains so that the liquefied gel can be easily displaced and petroleum, gas or other fluids can flow through the fractures in the formation. (8 claims)
- Assignee:
- GAF Corp.
- Patent Number(s):
- US 3397744
- OSTI ID:
- 5630065
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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