Method of fracturing subsurface formations
In a method of forming a multilayer pack of rigid, spherical propping agent particles in a fracture in a relatively soft formation, after the formation has been fractured, the faces of the fracture are sealed for only a part of the distance from the well. A liquid carrying the propping agent is then displaced into the fracture whereby the liquid flow through the fracture without substantial loss until the outer boundary of the sealed faces of the fracture is reached and then flows into the formation to deposit the propping agent in the formation. On continued displacement of the propping agent into the fracture, the propping agent builds up against the screen-out to form a multilayer pack from the outer boundary of the sealed faces of the fracture to the well. Threafter, pressure is reduced to allow flow of liquid into the well. (9 claims)
- Assignee:
- Gulf Research and Development Co.
- Patent Number(s):
- US 3323594
- OSTI ID:
- 6411871
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Process for fracturing and propping an unconsolidated subterranean formation
Method of fracturing subsurface formations