Process for two-step fracturing of subsurface formations

Details Process for two-step fracturing of subsurface formations Process for two-step fracturing of subsurface formations

2008-01-04

2010-06-22

Suchfield, George (Department: 3676)

Wells

Processes

With explosion or breaking container to implode

C166S300000, C166S308100, C166S308200

Reexamination Certificate

active

07740069

ABSTRACT:
A process for in situ production of shale oil comprises fracturing the target zone10of an shale oil formation using a two step approach. First, an initial set of fractures18is developed in the formation by using high pressure gas pulses. Second, a secondary set of fractures28extending and further fracturing the initial set of fractures18is created using a modified ANFO mix22wherein rubber particles acting as solid fuel are blended in with ammonium nitrate and fuel oil. The solid fuel enhances the fracturing characteristics of ANFO while minimizing its crushing and compacting tendencies. Hot high pour point oil is then injected into the formation and forced into the receptor well16where it is pumped to the surface. By circulating oil in the formation at carefully controlled temperatures, kerogen can be decomposed at the optimum rate to maximize the amount of oil recovered and yield high quality shale oil. High pour point oil reaching cooler extremities of the fractured formation will solidify creating an impermeable perimeter barrier34around the target zone10.

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