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

Method for plugging subterranean formations with siliceous gels

Patent ·
OSTI ID:7017568
This patent describes a process for selectively plugging a permeably zone in a subterranean formation. It comprises injecting into the zone a high pH aqueous solution of colloidal silica or alkali metal silicate and an inorganic fluoride salt which hydrolyzes to form hydrofluoric acid. The inorganic fluoride salt being present in sufficient concentration to reduce the pH of the aqueous solution and effect gelling of the colloidal silica or alkali metal silicate in situ.
Assignee:
Conoco, Inc., Ponca City, OK
Patent Number(s):
A; US 4901797
Application Number:
PPN: US 7-372396A
OSTI ID:
7017568
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English