Polymer Emulsion Sealing Composition for Matrix Permeability Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for reducing permeability in geological formations to limit liquid and gas inflow are ineffective, as they often result in premature setting, inadequate penetration, and unreliable sealing, particularly in varying conditions, leading to issues like hydrofracturing and leakage.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a multi-component sealing composition based on a polymer emulsion or colloid with controlled setting, using additives to interact with the polymer emulsion or colloid, forming a non-exothermic or low-exothermic seal barrier with small particle sizes for improved penetration and reliability, and adjusting components based on site-specific parameters to control set times and prevent premature coagulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cement based grout is introduced into voids and pore spaces to seal passages, then sealing of fissures is achieved, but hydrofracturing occurs creating seams of grout that leave unconsolidated matrix sections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical and physical parameters of the sealing composition by using a two-stage system: first introducing a water-repellent composition (silane/siloxane based) that penetrates without causing hydrofracturing, then introducing a sealing composition (cement slurry) that binds the treated particles. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by eliminating the hydrofracturing mechanism while maintaining sealing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite sealing system combining two distinct compositions: a water-repellent penetrant (silane/siloxane) and a cement-based sealing slurry. The first composition treats and binds particles without hydrofracturing, while the second provides the sealing barrier. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by separating the penetration function from the sealing function, allowing each to be optimized independently.
2Ease of operation
If premixed grout is used to seal passages, then application is simplified, but setting time cannot be controlled or varied leading to one size fits all solution that is inherently unsuitable for varying conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sealing process into two separate stages with distinct compositions: first a water-repellent penetrant composition, then a cement-based sealing composition. Each stage can be independently optimized and controlled. The setting time and properties of each composition can be independently adjusted based on specific site conditions, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control capabilities by allowing the properties (including setting time) of each composition stage to be independently adjusted based on measured site parameters. The system transitions from a static premixed grout to a dynamic two-stage system where composition properties can be varied to match specific application conditions, resolving the adaptability issue while maintaining procedural simplicity.
3Volume of moving object
If cement sealant is applied to seal passages, then sealing of larger passages is achieved, but penetration through matrix to required depth is inadequate particularly for small dimension passages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by first introducing the water-repellent penetrant composition that travels through the matrix passages before the cement slurry is applied. This first composition reduces surface tension and prepares the passage walls, enabling subsequent deeper penetration and better adhesion of the cement sealing slurry, thus resolving the penetration depth issue while maintaining adequate coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The water-repellent penetrant composition acts as an intermediary substance that facilitates the subsequent introduction and penetration of the cement sealing slurry. It modifies the surface properties of the matrix passages, creating conditions that allow the second composition to penetrate deeper and adhere more effectively, resolving the contradiction between coverage volume and penetration depth.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If grout setting occurs prematurely, then sealing is formed quickly, but grout is unable to adequately penetrate the matrix and create sufficient adhesion of particles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses preliminary action by having the water-repellent penetrant composition act first to bind and treat particles along the passage walls before the cement sealing slurry is introduced. This sequence ensures that when the cement slurry sets, it adheres to pre-treated, bound particles creating a reliable seal, while the penetrant's earlier presence allows adequate penetration time without compromising final seal effectiveness.
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
This approach provides a reliable and effective seal barrier with controlled set times, reducing liquid and gas inflow, minimizing waste and operational costs, and preventing hydrofracturing, while maintaining mechanical integrity.
Implementation Method 1
introducing said components of said sealing composition into said permeable matrix where it is set or coagulated in a non-exothermic or low exothermic setting process to form a seal barrier
Implementation Method 2
Traditional and pre-mixed cement and bitumen based grouts can additionally fail to adequately penetrate the passage or passages to be sealed
Data Source
AI summary
A method of limiting or reducing permeability of a matrix to liquid and/or gas inflow is described. The method includes limiting inflow of water, liquid and/or gas into passages such as cavities, fissures, voids and the like, encountered in formations such as geological formations though can be used to form barriers to water, liquid or gas flow through a matrix. The method includes steps of measuring one or more parameters relating to the matrix and selecting one or more components of a multi-component sealing composition with reference to the measured parameters. The selected components are introduced into the matrix where it is set or coagulated in a non-exothermic or low exothermic process to form a seal barrier. Also disclosed is a sealing composition comprising a coagulable polymer emulsion or colloid contactable with at least one selected additive which interacts with the polymer emulsion or colloid to form a coagulated mass for forming a sealing barrier in a non-exothermic or low exothermic setting process in which the polymer emulsion or colloid contains, prior to purposeful coagulation due to interaction with the selected additive, particles having a size distribution smaller than for Portland cement.