System for Extracting Hydrocarbons From Underground Geological Formations and Methods Thereof

a geological formation and hydrocarbon extraction technology, applied in the field of mining, can solve the problems of hydraulic fracturing, inefficiency of current fracking techniques, contamination of these important resources, etc., and achieve the effects of reducing or eliminating the need for hydraulic fluids, improving the efficiency of extracting hydrocarbons, and reducing costs
US20130220598A1Inactive Publication Date: 2013-08-29MINDCAKE LLC
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
US · United States
Current Assignee / Owner
MINDCAKE LLC
Publication Date
2013-08-29
Estimated Expiration
Not applicable · inactive patent

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Abstract

An ultrasonic fracking system and methods of using the same to extract hydrocarbons from underground geological formations (e.g., oil shale, coal beds, etc.) are disclosed. The system includes piezoelectric devices that are used to produce ultrasonic mechanical vibrations and induce fractures in the geological formations. In one embodiment, a system for extracting underground hydrocarbons comprises a plurality of piezoelectric devices capable of producing mechanical waves sufficient to fracture oil shale and other geological formations, a system of delivery for innocuous proppants to create a path of least resistance for enhanced hydrocarbon flow, and a vacuum pump connected to the fractures created by the piezoelectric devices to assist in removing the hydrocarbons.
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Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of mining (e.g., extracting, drilling or recovering) hydrocarbons. Embodiments of the present invention relate to a system for extracting hydrocarbons (e.g., hydrocarbon-based fuels) from underground formations utilizing ultrasound, and methods of using the same. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to a system and method for creating controlled fractures in underground geological formations, allowing the extraction of hydrocarbons trapped therein.DISCUSSION OF THE BACKGROUND

[0002] Increasing demands for domestic fuel sources have led to widespread attention to a technique of underground natural gas and oil exploitation called hydraulic fracturing (fracking) While the technique has merit, environmental concerns have recently arisen regarding the environmental impacts of fracking, including possible contamination of ground water, surface water, and soil, as well as the release of...

Claims

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