Wellbore isolation tool using sealing element having shape memory polymer

摘要

Anti-extrusion devices, packer elements, and inflatable packers include shape memory polymer (SMP) materials to enhance the operation of a packer, a bridge plug, or other downhole isolation tool. Seal system use seals of various material including SMP materials as booster for the seal produced. Tool for flow shut-off and sliding sleeve applications use SMP materials to open or close off flow through a tool.

主权项

1. A downhole tool, comprising:
a mandrel; an inflatable element disposed on the mandrel, the inflatable element defining a first chamber and being inflatable with a fluid introduced in the first chamber to an inflated state to engage a surrounding sidewall; and at least a portion of the inflatable element being composed of a shape memory polymer and activating from a first state to a second state in response to a predetermined stimulus, the portion in the second state at least partially expanding the inflatable element.