Subterranean Formation Consolidation via Sequential Polymer Agglomeration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Poorly consolidated subterranean formations, such as sandstone formations, experience particle production and permeability impairment due to the migration of fine particles, leading to reduced hydrocarbon production rates and logistical challenges in disposal.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the sequential contact of subterranean particles with a cationic polymer and an anionic or non-ionic polymer to agglomerate and consolidate the particles, increasing their uniformity and stability, thereby reducing particle migration and improving formation strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If chemical treatments (furaldehydes, phenols, epoxy based systems) are applied for sand consolidation, then particle production is reduced, but permeability of the formation is blocked thereby reducing hydrocarbon production rate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the chemical parameters of the consolidation treatment by using polymers with specific charge characteristics (cationic and anionic or non-ionic) instead of conventional chemical sand consolidation agents. This parameter change allows consolidation to occur without the pore blocking effect of traditional chemicals, thereby maintaining permeability while reducing particle production.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a composite polymer system comprising both cationic polymer and anionic or non-ionic polymer to achieve effective consolidation. This composite approach creates a synergistic effect where the cationic polymer provides initial particle attraction and the anionic/non-ionic polymer stabilizes the agglomerates, achieving consolidation without the harmful pore blocking effects of conventional single-agent chemical treatments.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a cationic polymer is applied to agglomerate particles, then particle migration is reduced, but the agglomeration is not stable without subsequent anionic or non-ionic polymer treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies a continuous multi-stage polymer treatment process where the cationic polymer is first applied to initiate particle agglomeration, followed by immediate application of the anionic or non-ionic polymer to stabilize the formed agglomerates. This continuous sequential action ensures both effective particle migration reduction and stable agglomerate formation, avoiding the instability that would result from using cationic polymer alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a composite polymer system where the cationic polymer and anionic or non-ionic polymer work together in sequence. The cationic polymer provides initial particle attraction and agglomeration, while the anionic or non-ionic polymer stabilizes the agglomerates by neutralizing remaining charges and forming stable complexes. This composite approach achieves both effective particle migration reduction and stable agglomerate formation.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If mechanical techniques (well screens, gravel packing) are used to control sand production, then particle production is reduced, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention substitutes the mechanical control system (well screens, gravel packing) with a chemical/polymer-based consolidation system. The polymers are injected into the formation to chemically bind particles together, eliminating the need for complex mechanical filtration systems. This substitution reduces device complexity and operational difficulty while effectively reducing particle production through formation consolidation rather than mechanical filtering.
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 method effectively increases the average diameter of particles, enhances their uniformity, and reduces particle production during hydrocarbon extraction, maintaining formation permeability and prolonging well production life.
Implementation Method 1
contacting the particles with a cationic polymer and then an anionic or non-ionic polymer, thereby agglomerating the particles
Implementation Method 2
contacting the particles with a cationic polymer and then an anionic or non-ionic polymer, thereby agglomerating the particles
Data Source
AI summary
A method of consolidating a subterranean formation which comprises particles is provided. The method includes selecting a subterranean formation in need of consolidation, contacting the particles with a cationic polymer and then an anionic or non-ionic polymer, thereby agglomerating the particles and consolidating the formation, wherein the agglomeration increases the uniformity of the size of the particles. Methods of producing hydrocarbon wherein the formation is consolidated by the method herein described are also provided. Use of kits comprising cationic polymer and anionic polymer and/or non-ionic polymer to consolidate subterranean formations is further provided. Kits comprising the polymers used in the method are also provided.