Swellable Compositions for Borehole Applications

摘要

Compositions that swell on contact with water contain a non-swellable thermoplastic or thermoset polymer and a swellable inorganic compound. In particular, the compositions are suitable for use in subterranean wells such as those used in the oil and gas industry. The polymer may be polypropylene and the inorganic compound may be magnesium oxide.

主权项

1. A swellable composition, suitable for use in subterranean wells, comprising inorganic material dispersed within a polymer matrix, wherein the inorganic material swells on contact with water due to hydration and phase modification of the inorganic material.