Wellbore sonoluminescent tools and related systems and methods

Abstract

The present application relates to tools, systems and methods for exciting hydrocarbon-bearing formations using energy from sonoluminescence.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 16 / 439,395, filed on June 12, 2019, entitled “Sonoluminescent Tools and Related Systems and Methods,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to tools for exciting hydrocarbon-bearing formations using energy generated by sonoluminescence, and related systems and methods. Background Art

[0004] Wellbore stimulation is a branch of petroleum engineering that focuses on how to promote the flow of hydrocarbons from the formation to the wellbore for production. In order to produce hydrocarbons from the target formation, the hydrocarbons in the formation need to flow from the formation to the wellbore so that the hydrocarbons can be produced and flow to the surface. The flow from the formation to the wellbore is achieved with the help of the formation permeability. When the formation permeability is low, stimulation measures are used to promote flow. Stimulation can be performed around the wellbore and in the formation to create a network in the formation. The first step of stimulation is usually to perforate the casing and cement to reach the formation. One way to perforate the casing is to use shaped charges. The shaped charge is lowered into the wellbore to reach the target release zone. The release of the shaped charge creates a short tunnel through the steel casing, cement and into the formation.

[0005] The use of shaped charges has several disadvantages. For example, shaped charges create a dense zone around the tunnel, which reduces permeability and thus production. The high-velocity impact of the shaped charge pulverizes the rock formation and produces very fine particles that block the pore throats of the formation, thereby reducing flow and production. There is a possibility of melt formation in the tunnel. The geometry and direction of the tunnel formed by the shaped charge cannot be controlled. There are limits to the penetration depth and diameter of the tunnel. There are risks involved when handling explosives on the surface.

[0006] The second stage of stimulation usually involves pumping fluid through the tunnels created by the shaped charge. The fluid is pumped at a rate that exceeds the formation fracture pressure causing the formation and rock to break and fracture, which is called hydraulic fracturing. Hydraulic fracturing is mainly performed using a water-based fluid called hydraulic fracturing fluid. Hydraulic fracturing fluid can damage the formation, especially shale. Hydraulic fracturing creates fractures in the formation, forming a network between the formation and the wellbore.

[0007] Hydraulic fracturing also has several disadvantages. First, as noted above, hydraulic fracturing can damage the formation. In addition, there is no way to control the direction of the fracture. Fractures have been known to close. There are risks at the surface due to the high pressure of the water in the pipes. In addition, there are environmental issues related to the components added to the hydraulic fracturing fluid and the need for millions of gallons of water required for hydraulic fracturing.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a tool for delivering an alternative energy source to a wellbore in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation and related systems and methods for using the tool. Summary of the invention

[0009] The present application relates to new tools and methods for exciting subsurface formations using energy generated by sonoluminescence. Various embodiments of the disclosed tools and methods include deploying the tool down a wellbore, triggering a sonoluminescent event, and directing the energy generated by the sonoluminescence toward a target area of ​​the formation. In some embodiments, the tool will be coupled to a control unit located at the surface, typically a control unit near the wellbore, which provides the fluids and signals required to trigger the reaction. In some embodiments, the disclosed tools and methods include deploying individual sonoluminescent chambers to components down a wellbore, wherein the chambers can be configured to position themselves proximate to a target area in the formation and can be remotely triggered.

[0010] In general, the energy generated via sonoluminescence can be used for many downhole applications, such as establishing or enhancing communication between a wellbore and a hydrocarbon-bearing formation. Sonoluminescence is a physical phenomenon that scientists still do not fully understand. It is the energy, such as light, emitted by bubbles in a liquid that are excited by sound. Sonoluminescence occurs when sound waves of sufficient intensity induce a rapid collapse of bubbles or cavities in a liquid. The cavities can be in the form of pre-existing bubbles or can be created through a process called cavitation. Sonoluminescence in the laboratory can be made stable so that a single bubble will expand and collapse again and again in a periodic manner, emitting a beam of light each time it collapses. To achieve this, an acoustic standing wave is set up in the liquid, and the bubble will be located at the pressure antinode of the standing wave. The resonant frequency depends on the shape and size of the container containing the cavity / bubble. The collapse of the bubble can generate energy equivalent to 14,695psi and 8,540°F. If this energy is controlled and directed, it can be collected for many downhole applications in the wellbore, such as perforating, fracturing, heating, and clearing sediments and condensate from the wellbore. The present disclosure describes various tools and methods for collecting and delivering sonoluminescently generated energy to a wellbore.

[0011] In one aspect, the present application relates to a tool for delivering sonoluminescence generated energy to a wellbore in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation. The tool includes an elongated body configured to be placed in a wellbore, and one or more cavity containers disposed along the length of the tool and at least partially disposed within the elongated body. Each cavity container may include: a shell defined by a cavity; a liquid port configured to introduce a liquid into the cavity; a gas port configured to introduce one or more gases into the cavity; one or more acoustic transducers disposed adjacent to the cavity and configured to generate acoustic waves to induce sonoluminescence in the cavity; and one or more acoustic mirrors disposed adjacent to the cavity and configured to reflect energy generated by the induced sonoluminescence and direct it toward the formation.

[0012] In various embodiments, the tool further comprises at least one rotating device disposed along the length of the tool and configured to divide the elongated body into at least two sections. At least one of the sections may include a cavity container. The at least one rotating device may be disposed adjacent to the one or more cavity containers and configured to rotate each cavity container relative to the longitudinal axis of the tool. The at least one rotating device may be actuated hydraulically or electrically. In some embodiments, a single port may be used as the liquid port and the gas port.

[0013] In addition, the position of the one or more acoustic transducers can be adjusted relative to the cavity container, and the position of the one or more acoustic mirrors can also be adjusted relative to the cavity container. In various embodiments, the acoustic transducer, the acoustic mirror, or both can be attached to the cavity container or tool in a fixed manner (for example, via bonding or mechanical fasteners) or in a removable manner (for example, a swivel joint or a U-clamp joint). In embodiments where the transducer or mirror is mounted in a removable manner, the mounting arrangement may include a servo motor or similar device to control the positioning of the transducer or mirror relative to the tool in response to a control signal from the surface. In some embodiments, the tool is configured to be lowered into the wellbore by a solenoid, cable, or tractor, and the position of the transducer or mirror can be adjusted on the surface before the tool is deployed.

[0014] In another aspect, the present application relates to a tool for generating energy by sonoluminescence in a wellbore of a hydrocarbon-bearing formation. The tool comprises: an elongated body configured to be placed in a wellbore; a liquid port disposed in the elongated body and configured to receive a liquid from a liquid source; a gas port disposed in the elongated body and configured to receive one or more gases from a gas source; a liquid nozzle disposed in the elongated body and configured to introduce a liquid into a cavity in the formation; and a gas nozzle disposed in the elongated body and configured to introduce one or more gases into the cavity.

[0015] The tool also includes: one or more acoustic transducers, which are disposed on the slender body and are configured to generate sound waves; and one or more acoustic mirrors, which are disposed on the slender body and are configured to reflect and direct the sound waves toward the cavity to induce sonoluminescence in the cavity.

[0016] In various embodiments of the aforementioned aspects, the cavity may be one or more void spaces within a formation. In some embodiments, the liquid source, the gas source, or both are disposed within the elongated body or at a remote location. Additionally, the acoustic transducer of any aspect may be configured to evaluate a formation.

[0017] In another aspect, the present application relates to a system for delivering energy from sonoluminescence to a wellbore in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation. The system includes a plurality of capsules and means for delivering the capsules down the wellbore. In various embodiments, each capsule includes: a housing defining a cavity; one or more acoustic transducers disposed adjacent to the cavity and configured to generate acoustic waves to induce sonoluminescence in the cavity; and one or more bursting discs disposed within the housing and configured to rupture and release energy generated by the induced sonoluminescence.

[0018] In various embodiments, the density of the plurality of compartments varies between compartments. In some cases, the density of a compartment in the plurality of compartments is non-uniform within the compartment. The compartment may also include one or more gases, one or more liquids, or both. In some embodiments, the housing includes at least one tip configured to engage the formation.

[0019] In yet another aspect, the present application relates to a method for delivering energy from sonoluminescence to a wellbore in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation. The method includes the steps of: introducing a cavity defined by a shell of a cavity container into the wellbore via a tool; injecting a liquid into the cavity through a liquid port disposed adjacent to the cavity; injecting one or more gases into the cavity through a gas port disposed adjacent to the cavity; activating one or more acoustic transducers disposed adjacent to the cavity to generate acoustic waves to induce sonoluminescence in the cavity; and directing the generated energy toward the formation using one or more acoustic mirrors disposed adjacent to the cavity.

[0020] In various embodiments of the method, the method may include the following optional steps or all include: introducing a plurality of cavity containers into the wellbore via the tool; connecting one or more of the plurality of cavity containers to a rotating device, the rotating device being configured to orient the cavity containers relative to a target in the formation.

[0021] In another aspect of the method, the method includes delivering a plurality of capsules to a wellbore, wherein each of the plurality of capsules includes a housing defining a cavity, one or more acoustic transducers disposed adjacent to the cavity, and one or more rupture discs disposed within the housing. The method also includes activating the one or more acoustic transducers to generate acoustic waves to induce sonoluminescence in the cavity, and rupturing the one or more rupture discs to release energy generated by the induced sonoluminescence.

[0022] In various embodiments, the plurality of compartments are oriented within the wellbore by varying the density of at least one compartment of the plurality of compartments. Additionally, the density of at least one compartment of the plurality of compartments is non-uniform within the at least one compartment.

[0023] definition

[0024] In order to make this application easier to understand, some terms are first defined below. Other definitions of the following terms and other terms may be shown throughout the specification.

[0025] In this application, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms "a" and "an" may be understood to mean "at least one / a kind". As used in this application, the term "or" may be understood to mean "and / or". In this application, the term "comprising" may be understood to cover the components or steps listed in detail, whether alone or together with one or more other components or steps. As used in this application, the term "comprise" and variations of the term (such as "comprising" and "comprises") are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.

[0026] About, roughly: As used herein, the terms "about" and "roughly" are used equivalently. Unless otherwise specified, the terms "about" and "roughly" may be understood to allow standard deviations as understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. In the case of providing a range herein, the endpoints are included. Any number used in conjunction with or without about / roughly in this application is intended to cover any normal fluctuations understood by those of ordinary skill in the relevant art. In some embodiments, unless otherwise specified or apparent in the context (unless such numbers exceed 100% of possible values), the term "roughly" or "approximately" refers to a certain range of values ​​(larger or smaller than the reference value) of 25%, 20%, 19%, 18%, 17%, 16%, 15%, 14%, 13%, 12%, 11%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1% or less in either direction of the reference value.

[0027] Near a wellbore: As used herein, the term "near a wellbore" refers to an area of ​​rock formation in or around a wellbore. In some embodiments, "near a wellbore" refers to an area of ​​the surface adjacent to a wellbore opening, such as less than 35 meters (m) from the wellbore (e.g., less than 30, less than 25, less than 20, less than 15, less than 10, or less than 5 meters from the wellbore).

[0028] Substantially: As used herein, the term "substantially" refers to the qualitative condition of exhibiting full or nearly full range or degree of a characteristic or property of interest.

[0029] These and other objects, advantages and features of the systems and methods disclosed herein will become apparent by reference to the following description and drawings.In addition, it should be understood that the features of the various embodiments described are not mutually exclusive, but can exist in various combinations and permutations. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] In the drawings, the same reference numerals generally refer to the same parts in different views. In addition, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and the emphasis is actually primarily on illustrating the principles of the disclosed systems and methods rather than being intended to be limiting. For clarity, not every component may be labeled in every figure. In the following description, reference is made to various embodiments described in the following figures, in which:

[0031] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a sonoluminescence process according to one or more embodiments;

[0032] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a sono tool configuration for generating and delivering sonoluminescent energy for downhole applications according to one or more embodiments;

[0033] Figure 3 is a schematic representation of the operation of an acoustic mirror for use with a tool according to one or more embodiments;

[0034] Figure 4 is a schematic representation of a single chamber for generating and delivering sonoluminescent energy for downhole applications according to one or more embodiments;

[0035] Figure 5 is a schematic representation of an alternative configuration of a chamber for generating and delivering sonoluminescent energy for downhole applications according to one or more embodiments;

[0036] Figure 6 is a schematic representation of a method of delivering a plurality of capsules to a wellbore according to one or more embodiments;

[0037] Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a density comparison of a tank according to one or more embodiments;

[0038] Figure 8 is a schematic representation of an alternative method of delivering multiple capsules to a wellbore according to one or more embodiments; and

[0039] Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of a portion of a sonoluminescent tool deployed within a wellbore to generate and deliver sonoluminescent energy to a formation in accordance with one or more embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Figure 1 A process 100 for producing sonoluminescence according to one or more embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, there is a pre-existing bubble 102 in a fluid environment 101. In some embodiments, the bubble 102 is generated by a process known as cavitation. The bubble 102 may include one or more gases, such as a noble gas. The fluid environment 101 may be water or other fluids. The bubble 102 may be bombarded with sound waves to trap the waves within the bubble. Thus, the bubble 102 may expand to a state as shown in 103. The bubble 102 may be exposed to continuous sound waves to cause a sudden collapse as shown in 104, wherein 105 shows the release of energy and light by the collapse.

[0041] In general, the present application describes a tool for delivering energy from sonoluminescence to a wellbore below a hydrocarbon-bearing formation and related systems and methods. In some embodiments, the tool generates a cavity (or bubble) and releases energy in situ. The tool is configured to be placed in a wellbore.

[0042] Figure 2One embodiment of a tool 200 for delivering energy generated via sonoluminescence to a wellbore is depicted. As shown, the tool 200 includes an elongated body 202 that can be lowered into the wellbore by a solenoid, cable, or tractor known in the industry. The tool 200 may include one or more sections 204 separated by one or more rotating devices 206. Each section 204 may include a cavity container 208 disposed therein, wherein the container 208 is configured to generate and direct the generated energy into the formation. Each cavity container 208 may include a housing 210 that defines a cavity 212 configured to hold a liquid and a gas. In some embodiments, the liquid is water. In some embodiments, the gas is a rare gas. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the housing 210 may be transparent.

[0043] Typically, liquid is introduced into cavity 212 through a liquid port 216 disposed adjacent to cavity 212. Liquid port 216 may be connected to a liquid source via a corresponding liquid line. In some embodiments, the liquid source may be included in tool 200, while in other embodiments, the liquid line may pass through tool 200 and the wellbore to a liquid source disposed at the surface. Similarly, gas may be injected into cavity 212 through a gas port 218 disposed adjacent to cavity 212. Gas port 218 may be connected to a gas source via a corresponding gas line. In some embodiments, the gas source may be included in tool 200, while in other embodiments, the gas line may pass through tool 200 and the wellbore to a gas source disposed at the surface.

[0044] In various embodiments, the tool includes one or more acoustic transducers 214 that can be positioned adjacent to the cavity. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , each cavity 212 has two (2) transducers; however, the number and location of the transducers may vary to suit a particular application. In some embodiments, the acoustic transducers are positioned at the top of the cavity 212, while in other embodiments, the acoustic transducers are positioned at the bottom of the cavity 212. Once activated, the acoustic transducers 214 may generate acoustic waves that are directed into the cavity. Additionally, in some embodiments, the transducers may be removably attached to the cavity container or elongated body to facilitate adjustment of the direction of the acoustic waves generated by the transducers 214.

[0045] Typically, transducer mounting methods may include, for example, stud mounting, adhesives, magnetic members, or wires. Typically, these mounting methods attach the transducer to the tool in a fixed manner, but not necessarily permanently. For example, a magnetic member may be used to hold the transducer in a fixed position, but the position may be adjusted on the surface before the tool is deployed. Alternatively, the transducer may be removably mounted to the tool via some type of rotary joint. A servo motor may be coupled to the transducer to adjust the position of the transducer relative to the tool in response to a signal. In some embodiments, a signal is generated on the surface (e.g., via a control system) and sent to the motor via a cable. In some cases, the signal may be generated in situ. Other ways of mounting and controlling the movement of the transducer are known to those skilled in the art of borehole logging.

[0046] In various embodiments, the tool includes one or more acoustic mirrors 220 positionable adjacent to the cavity 212, the one or more acoustic mirrors 220 controlling the delivery of energy generated within the cavity. Figure 3 The detailed operation of the acoustic mirror 220 is shown in FIG. In general, an acoustic mirror is used to reflect and focus (focus) sound waves. The acoustic mirror can be activated and deactivated by an electrical signal from the surface, or the acoustic mirror can be passive and does not need to be activated.

[0047] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, there are two (2) mirrors per cavity 212; however, the number and position of the mirrors may vary to suit a particular application. The mirror 220 may be removably attached to the cavity container or elongated body to facilitate adjustment of the position of the mirror relative to the tool 200. The acoustic mirror 220 may be attached to the tool and operated in the same manner as previously discussed with respect to the acoustic transducer.

[0048] The rotating device 206 can be configured to rotate each section 204 relative to the longitudinal axis 201 of the tool 200. In some embodiments, each section 204 can be independently rotated so that each cavity container can be oriented toward a desired target. In various embodiments, the rotating device can be actuated by hydraulic, pneumatic or electrical means (e.g., a servo motor).

[0049] In operation, after fluid and gas are injected into one or more cavities 212, thereby forming at least one bubble in each cavity, the acoustic transducer 214 is activated. The generated sound waves merge in the bubbles and are stored in the form of energy. The bubbles will remain in equilibrium until another acoustic transducer 214 is triggered and excited to generate another sound wave with the same or different frequency. This will cause the bubbles to collapse and release energy into the formation.

[0050] The energy released into the formation is controlled by an acoustic mirror 220. The mirror 220 prevents the energy from traveling in the opposite direction and damaging the tool 200, and also helps to focus and direct the energy toward a desired target. Figure 3 One of the acoustic mirrors is depicted in an activated state and a deactivated state. Typically, when the acoustic mirror 220 is not present or deactivated, the energy generated by the sonoluminescence is released in an uncontrollable manner and can travel in any direction, where the acoustic mirror may damage the tool 200, the wrong part of the wellbore, or the wrong part of the formation. In contrast, when the acoustic mirror 220 is activated, it can direct, redirect, and reflect the acoustic energy toward a desired target.

[0051] The present application also describes a system for delivering energy from sonoluminescence to a wellbore in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation. The system may include one or more capsules that may be prefabricated at the surface and subsequently lowered into the wellbore. After being placed in the wellbore, the capsule may be activated to deliver sonoluminescence energy to the formation.

[0052] Figure 4 One embodiment of a capsule 400 is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments. The capsule 400 includes a housing 402 defining a cavity 404. Liquids, gases, and components for generating acoustic energy may be enclosed in the cavity 404. For example, an acoustic transducer may be coupled to each capsule, or one or more acoustic transducers may also be lowered into the wellbore proximate to the capsule 400. The total amount of energy stored in the capsule may be adjusted depending on the exact composition of the formation and the energy required for a particular task or application.

[0053] As shown, the capsule 400 includes a top 406 and a bottom 408 that are substantially frustoconical in shape; however, other shapes and configurations of the capsule may be selected to suit a particular application. In some embodiments, the top 406 and bottom 408 are manufactured to have different densities, which will help stabilize and orient the capsule to a desired location within the wellbore. In some embodiments, the bottom 408 has a higher density than the top 406.

[0054] In order to release the stored energy in a controlled manner, the capsule 400 will include one or more bursting discs 410. Figure 4 As shown, burst discs 410 are disposed on the distal ends of the top 406 and bottom 408 of the capsule body; however, other locations and numbers of burst discs 410 may be selected to suit a particular application.

[0055] Once activated by a control signal, bursting disc 410 may rupture to release the stored energy. In some embodiments, once it is determined that capsule 400 has been properly placed, a signal may be relayed from the surface. In some embodiments, seismic waves are generated to collapse capsule 400 and release its stored energy via bursting disc 410. Alternatively, bursting disc 410 may be manufactured to rupture at a threshold pressure. In some embodiments, the rupture pressure may vary from capsule to capsule, and even from bursting disc to bursting disc.

[0056] In some embodiments, a bursting disc 410a having a low pressure rupture threshold is installed in the top 406 of the cabin body, while a bursting disc 410b having a high pressure rupture threshold is installed in the bottom 408 of the cabin body. Thus, once the cabin is activated, the top bursting disc 410a can release energy vertically upward. At the same time, in the event of a failure of the top bursting disc 410a, the bottom bursting disc 410b can act as a safety valve. Different cabin configurations can be manufactured for different applications. In addition, the size and shape of the cabin 400 can also be controlled based on the energy required for a specific application.

[0057] Figure 5 Several alternative capsule configurations are depicted. Capsule 502 is designed to release energy from both ends, with each end having a pointed tip. Capsule 504 may have a bursting disc located at one end of the capsule body and configured to release energy in only one direction. Capsule 506 may include a bursting disc at one end and a pointed tip at the opposite end. When activated, the top bursting disc of capsule 506 may rupture to release the stored energy while pushing the capsule body in the opposite direction, with the pointed tip toward the formation. The pointed tip may be configured to penetrate the formation to cause microcracks or weakening of the formation. In some embodiments, the capsule may include one or more pointed bursting discs, wherein the pointed tip may help cause ruptures in the formation. In some embodiments, the capsule will have a diameter of approximately 0.5 to 4.0 inches to accommodate the wellbore size. Other diameters and shapes are planned and may be selected to accommodate specific applications.

[0058] However, there are challenges associated with delivering energy generated by sonoluminescence via a capsule. Figure 6 6 shows a process 600 in which a plurality of capsules are lowered into a wellbore 610 in a formation 612. The capsules 602, 604, 606, and 608 may all have identical configurations and identical densities when injected into the wellbore. Because each capsule has the same density, the capsules will tend to aggregate into clusters that are unevenly distributed throughout the wellbore, whether it is a horizontal or vertical wellbore. When the capsules are activated, the stored energy may be released at random locations, including in some undesirable areas.

[0059] Figure 7 and 8 Indicates the methods used to overcome these challenges. Figure 7As shown, each of the capsules 702, 704, and 706 can be made with different densities so that the capsules can be distributed at different depths in the wellbore. Specifically, capsule 706 will have a greater density than capsules 702 and 704, so that capsule 706 will settle at the deepest position after being injected into the wellbore. Similarly, the density of capsules 704 and 702 can be configured in different ways so that the capsules will also settle at different depths in the wellbore. In some embodiments, multiple groups of capsules can be used, and the density of multiple capsules in one group can be substantially the same, but different from the density of capsules in other groups.

[0060] Figure 8 Depicted are multiple chambers deployed in a horizontal wellbore 814 in a formation 816. Each of the chambers 802, 804, 806, 808, 810, 812 is manufactured to have a different density. In order to distribute the chambers at different depths, the wellbore may be drilled at a slight angle to allow the chambers to be separated within the wellbore based on density, such as Figure 8 As shown. Figure 8 As shown, the capsules 802, 804, 806, 808, 810, 812 will distribute themselves based on the different densities of the various capsules. In the depicted inclined horizontal wellbore, the heaviest capsules will move to the bottom, while the lighter capsules will move to the top. In addition, the capsules will orient themselves within the wellbore based on the different densities within each individual capsule. Once the capsules are activated by any of the methods previously described, the stored energy can be released at the desired target location.

[0061] The present application also describes a tool for generating bubbles in a formation and delivering sonoluminescent energy accordingly. The tool is configured to inject fluids and gases into the formation and target acoustic waves to induce sonoluminescence within the formation. Generally, any artificial or naturally occurring void within the formation can provide a cavity.

[0062] Fig. 9 An alternative tool 900 is depicted that is configured to facilitate the generation of energy via sonoluminescence within a formation 912, according to one or more embodiments. The tool 900 includes gas and water ports 902 configured to receive one or more gases and liquids, such as water, that can be delivered into the formation. In some embodiments, the ports 902 are coupled to a gas source and a water source via conventional piping methods used in the industry. The gas source and water source may be located at the surface or placed with the body of the tool 900.

[0063] The tool 900 also includes at least one gas nozzle 904 and at least one water nozzle 906, which are coupled to the port 902 and disposed on the outer surface of the tool and are configured to introduce liquids and gases into the formation 912. Also included are one or more acoustic transducers 908 and one or more acoustic mirrors 910. As long as the formation 912 has natural void spaces, such as high porosity or fractures, the device 900 can use the gas nozzle 904 and the water nozzle 906 to inject gas and water into the formation 912. In some cases, other operations performed on the wellbore may create artificial voids that are also useful.

[0064] The nozzles 904, 906 can be aligned with the acoustic transducer 908 and focused in the same direction. After the void spaces in the formation 912 are filled with water and gas, the acoustic transducer 908 can be activated to generate acoustic waves toward the formation. The acoustic mirror 910 can be placed adjacent to the acoustic transducer 908 to protect the tool and focus the energy toward the formation 912. The time required to generate bubbles is predetermined in the laboratory, so the acoustic transducer can be triggered to create bubbles only during a specific time period. Once the sonoluminescence is induced, the energy can be released into the formation.

[0065] Additionally, the acoustic transducer 908 can also be used for formation assessment and logging to determine where bubbles are generated. The acoustic transducer can also be used to create an acoustic image in the formation, and based on this, the acoustic transducer 908 can be oriented to focus the sound waves where there are voids or breaks to form bubbles.

[0066] It is contemplated that the systems, apparatus, methods, and processes of the present application encompass variations and changes developed using the information of the embodiments described in the accompanying description.Alterations or modifications of the methods and processes described in this specification may be performed by a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art.

[0067] Throughout the specification, where compositions, compounds or products are described as having, containing or comprising specific components, or where processes and methods are described as having, containing or comprising specific steps, it is also contemplated that there are articles, devices and systems of the present application that consist essentially of or consist of the components, and that there are processes and methods according to the present application that consist essentially of or consist of the processing steps.

[0068] It should be understood that the order of steps or the order in which certain actions are performed is not important, as long as the method described is still operable. In addition, two or more steps or actions can be performed simultaneously.

Claims

1. A tool for delivering sonoluminescently generated energy to a wellbore in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation, characterized in that The tools include: an elongated body configured to be placed within a wellbore; one or more hollow containers disposed along the length of the tool and at least partially within the elongated body, wherein each of the one or more hollow containers comprises: a cavity defined by the housing; a liquid port configured to introduce liquid into the cavity; a gas port configured to introduce one or more gases into the cavity; one or more acoustic transducers positioned adjacent the cavity and configured to generate acoustic waves to induce sonoluminescence in the cavity; and One or more acoustic mirrors are positioned adjacent the cavity and configured to reflect energy generated by the induced sonoluminescence and direct it toward the formation.

2. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that The tool also includes at least one rotation device disposed along the length of the tool and configured to divide the elongated body into at least two sections.

3. The tool according to claim 2, characterized in that At least one of the segments includes a hollow container.

4. The tool according to claim 2, characterized in that The at least one rotation device is positioned adjacent the one or more cavity containers and is configured to rotate the cavity containers relative to a longitudinal axis of the tool.

5. The tool according to claim 2, characterized in that The rotating device may be actuated hydraulically or electrically.

6. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that A single port may be used as the liquid port as well as the gas port.

7. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that The position of the one or more acoustic transducers is adjustable relative to the cavity container.

8. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that The position of the one or more acoustic mirrors may be adjusted relative to the cavity container.

9. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that The tool is configured to be lowered into the wellbore by solenoid, wireline or tractor.

10. A tool for delivering sonoluminescently generated energy to a wellbore in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation, characterized in that The tools include: an elongated body configured to be placed within a wellbore; a liquid port disposed in the elongated body and configured to receive liquid from a liquid source; a gas port disposed in the elongated body and configured to receive one or more gases from a gas source; a liquid nozzle disposed in the elongated body and configured to introduce a liquid into a cavity within the formation; a gas nozzle disposed in the elongated body and configured to introduce one or more gases into the cavity; one or more acoustic transducers disposed on the elongated body and configured to generate acoustic waves; and One or more acoustic mirrors are disposed on the elongated body and are configured to reflect and direct the acoustic waves toward the cavity to induce sonoluminescence in the cavity.

11. The tool according to claim 10, characterized in that The cavity comprises one or more void spaces within the formation.

12. The tool according to claim 10, characterized in that The liquid source is disposed within the elongated body or remotely therefrom.

13. The tool according to claim 10, characterized in that The source of one or more gases is disposed within the elongated body or remotely therefrom.

14. The tool according to claim 1 or 10, characterized in that The acoustic transducer is also configured to evaluate the formation.

15. A system for delivering energy from sonoluminescence to a wellbore in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation, characterized in that The system comprises: Multiple pods; and means for delivering the capsules down the wellbore, wherein each capsule comprises: a housing defining a cavity containing one or more gases and one or more liquids; one or more acoustic transducers positioned adjacent the cavity and configured to generate acoustic waves to induce sonoluminescence in the cavity; and One or more bursting discs are disposed within the housing and configured to rupture and release energy generated by the induced sonoluminescence.

16. The system according to claim 15, characterized in that The density of the plurality of compartments varies between compartments.

17. The system according to claim 15, characterized in that The density of a compartment in the plurality of compartments is non-uniform within the compartment.

18. The system according to claim 15, characterized in that The housing includes at least one tip configured to engage the formation.

19. A method for delivering energy from sonoluminescence to a wellbore in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation, characterized in that The method comprises the following steps: introducing a cavity defined by a shell of a cavity container into a wellbore via a tool; injecting liquid into the cavity through a liquid port disposed adjacent to the cavity; injecting one or more gases into the cavity through a gas port disposed adjacent to the cavity; activating one or more acoustic transducers disposed adjacent the cavity to generate acoustic waves to induce sonoluminescence in the cavity; and The generated energy is directed toward the formation using one or more acoustic mirrors positioned adjacent the cavity.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that The method further includes the step of introducing a plurality of hollow cavity containers into the wellbore via the tool.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that The method further includes the step of connecting one or more of the plurality of cavity containers to a rotation device configured to orient the cavity container relative to a target in the formation.

22. A method for delivering energy from sonoluminescence to a wellbore in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation, characterized in that The method comprises the following steps: delivering a plurality of capsules to the wellbore, wherein each capsule of the plurality of capsules comprises: a housing defining a cavity containing one or more gases and one or more liquids, one or more acoustic transducers, the one or more acoustic transducers positioned adjacent the cavity, and one or more bursting discs, the one or more bursting discs disposed within the housing; activating the one or more acoustic transducers to generate acoustic waves to induce sonoluminescence in the cavity; and The one or more rupture discs are ruptured to release energy generated by the induced sonoluminescence.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that The plurality of compartments are oriented within the wellbore by varying the density of at least one compartment of the plurality of compartments.

24. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that The density of at least one compartment of the plurality of compartments is non-uniform within the at least one compartment.

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