Method for consolidating sand in hydrocarbon reservoirs

Abstract

Preventing the flow of soil grains into oil and gas wells is highly desirable for the protection of hydrocarbon production. Geotechnical engineering solutions addressing this issue may utilize enzyme-induced precipitation methods to consolidate and increase shear strength. Methods may comprise: providing a mixture comprising urea, a urease enzyme, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and a cellulose; contacting at least a portion of the mixture with at least a portion of a subterranean formation; and forming a biomineral precipitate within the subterranean formation. The biomineral precipitate, comprised of a carbonate mineral and an evaporite mineral, may consolidate particles within the subterranean formation to form a consolidated body.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.