Topical defoamer and demulsifier
AssigneeClearwater International, LLC
InventorsKevin W. Smith, Joseph Miller, Larry W. Gatlin
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Compounds of the formula H(CH2)zCOO—[C2H4O]xCyH2y+1 where z is 0-2, x is an integer from 1 to 5 and y is an integer from 4-9 are used as emulsion breakers and defoamers in formation treatment fluids in the recovery of hydrocarbons from subterranean formations. A preferred material has the formula HCOO—[C2H4O]3C6H7.
Claims8
A formation treatment fluid comprising a surfactant and an amount of a compound of the formula H(CH2)zCOO—[C2H4O]xCyH2Y+1. where Z is an integer from 0 to 2, X is an integer from 1 to 5, and Y is an integer from 4 to 9, effective to destabilize a foam or emulsion made by said surfactant in a hydrocarbon-containing subterranean formation having a temperature of at least 100° F., wherein said surfactant comprises an amine oxide surfactant.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.