High temperature seawater-based cross-linked fracturing fluids and methods

摘要

The present invention provides seawater-based cross-linked fracturing fluids and methods of preparing and using the fluids in fracturing subterranean formations penetrated by well bores and having temperatures above about 200° F. The improved cross-linked fracturing fluids are basically comprised of a gelling agent, seawater present in an amount sufficient to hydrate the gelling agent and to form a gelled aqueous fluid, and a delayed cross-linking agent, capable of causing delayed cross-linking of the gelling agent in the gelled aqueous fluid at a pH below the threshold for precipitate formation in seawater.