ADJUSTING SURFACTANT CONCENTRATIONS DURING HYRAULIC FRACTURING

摘要

Fracturing methods include introducing a relatively high concentration of a surfactant in an initial portion of one or more fluids used in a fracturing treatment and then cutting or ramping back to a relatively low concentration of the surfactant in the remaining fluid used in the treatment. By using such a method, the volume of surfactant to provide superior treatment can be reduced significantly from the normal recommendations, leading to a high cost savings while still obtaining the desired effect upon cleanup.

主权项

1. A method of fracturing a treatment zone of a subterranean formation penetrated by a well, the method comprising:
continuously introducing a fluid into the treatment zone, wherein the fluid is water-based, wherein the fluid comprises a surfactant, wherein the introducing of the fluid is at least at a sufficient rate and pressure to create or extend a fracture in the subterranean formation, and wherein the concentration of the surfactant in the fluid is decreased from a first concentration to a second concentration at least once during the time of introducing of the fluid into the treatment zone.