Method of Assuring Dissolution of Degradable Tools

Abstract

The use of degradable components has become a more common practice in subterranean operations for such applications as temporarily isolating zones or diverting flow. A major concern of operators in using degradable tools is the ability to ensure that the tool has completely degraded and is no longer blocking or obstructing flow. This issue can be resolved through the use of degradable components that include one or more chemical additives that are released upon the partial or full dissolution of the degradable component, and which can be used to facilitate in the dissolution of the degradable component. The degradable component can optionally include tracer elements that are released upon the partial or full dissolution of the degradable component, and which can be detected at the surface to ensure the desired degradation or removal of the degradable component as well as hydraulic access to that stage.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.