Borate Salt Particulate Migration Control Composition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current consolidating agents used in subterranean formations to control particulate migration are difficult to handle, transport, and clean up, and often result in early curing and inadequate contact between resin and catalyst, leading to inefficient consolidation and reduced permeability.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising a borate salt, an amine, and an organosilane is introduced into the subterranean formation to consolidate particulates, providing a synergistic effect that enhances grain-to-grain contact and creates strong bonds between particles, while being easier to handle and less expensive than traditional resin treatments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional resin and catalyst consolidating agents are used, then particulate migration is controlled, but the agents are difficult to handle, transport, and clean up
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the consolidating agent by using a borate salt-based composition with specific pH range (7-11) and controlled viscosity, making it easier to handle and transport while maintaining consolidation effectiveness. The composition includes specific additives that modify its physical properties for better operational characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a water-soluble borate salt-based consolidating agent that can be easily disposed of or cleaned up after use, unlike traditional resin systems that require complex cleanup procedures. The composition is designed to be environmentally benign and readily removable.
2Reliability
If traditional resin and catalyst consolidating agents are used, then particulate migration is controlled, but early curing occurs and contact between resin and catalyst is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a borate salt as an intermediary substance that facilitates controlled curing. The borate salt acts as a catalyst promoter that requires specific conditions (pH, temperature, contact time) to activate, preventing premature curing while ensuring adequate reaction between consolidating agent components. This intermediary mechanism provides better control over the curing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls the curing parameters by maintaining specific pH levels (7-11), temperature ranges, and contact times. The composition includes pH indicators and curing agents that activate only under specific conditions, preventing early curing and ensuring adequate contact between all components before setting occurs.
3Reliability
If traditional consolidating agents are used, then consolidation is achieved, but permeability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a porous consolidated mass through the borate salt-based composition that maintains fluid conductivity. The composition forms a matrix with controlled pore structures that allow fluid flow while providing mechanical consolidation. The porous architecture is achieved through the specific chemical reactions and particle arrangement facilitated by the borate salt system.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The composition achieves a regain permeability of at least 60% and forms a cohesive, permeable mass, reducing particulate migration and maintaining fluid conductivity, with improved handling and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
a composition comprising a borate salt, an amine, and an organosilane is introduced into the subterranean formation to consolidate particulates, providing a synergistic effect that enhances grain-to-grain contact and creates strong bonds between particles
Implementation Method 2
The composition achieves a regain permeability of at least 60% and forms a cohesive, permeable mass, reducing particulate migration and maintaining fluid conductivity
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of treating a subterranean formation include providing a treatment fluid including a composition of a borate salt, an amine, and an organosilane; introducing the treatment fluid into the formation; and curing the composition to at least partially consolidate unconsolidated particulates in the formation.