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

Method for controlling flow of aqueous fluids in subterranean formations

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6193263
The formation of colloidal, water-insoluble, inorganic compounds in the presence of high-weight organic polyelectrolytes in dilute aqueous solution provides aqueous compositions having improved resistance to flow through porous subterranean formations. The use of these compositions provides a method for diminishing or shutting off water production in oil wells, for controlling the mobility of aqueous fluids in zones of higher permeability in such formations, and for plugging subsurface leaks as in earthen dams. This method provides a useful adjunct in the control of thief zones in oil-well drilling and in secondary recovery of petroleum by waterflooding techniques. (10 claims)
Assignee:
Dow Chemical Co.
Patent Number(s):
US 3687200
OSTI ID:
6193263
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English