Application of Hydrogels and Hydrocarbon-Based Gels in Oil Production Processes and Well Drilling

The use of gels in oil production processes has become a regular practice in oilfield operations and is constantly developing in all oil-producing countries of the world, as evidenced by the growth of publications and patent activity on this topic. Many oil production processes, such as hydraulic fracturing, conformance control, water, and gas shutoff, cannot be imagined without the use of gel technologies. Inorganic, organic, and hybrid gels are used, as well as foams, gel-forming, and gel-dispersed systems. The possibility of a broad control of structural and mechanical properties, thermal stability, and shear resistance by introducing microscale and nanoscale additives made hydrogels and hydrocarbon-based gels indispensable tools for oil engineers.

Automated summary

The use of gels in oil production processes is a common practice worldwide, with continued development and increasing publications and patent activity. Various gel technologies, including inorganic, organic, and hybrid gels, as well as foam, gel-forming, and gel-dispersed systems, are employed in processes such as hydraulic fracturing and conformance control. The introduction of microscale and nanoscale additives allows for precise control of structural and mechanical properties, making gels indispensable tools for oil engineers.