PREPARATION OF HYDROCARBON GELS FROM FERRIC SOURCES, POLYCARBOXYLIC ACID COMPOUNDS, AND OPTIONAL AMINES, IN COMBINATION WITH PHOSPHATE ESTERS

摘要

This invention relates to improved hydrocarbon gels which find use in the fracturing of petroleum producing formations. In particular it relates to the use of a define class of gelling agents for hydrocarbons which provide excellent results in such fracturing. The gelling agents comprise combinations of (1) selected orthophosphate esters and (2) a composition comprising a source of ferric ions, an amine, and a polycarboxylic acid or salt thereof.