US3593788A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Crushing oil shale with nuclear explosives
Assignee: Phillips Petroleum Co
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Filing: 1967-09-05
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Granted: 1971-07-20
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Expires: 1987-09-05
Abstract
Abstract The effectiveness of nuclear explosions in an oil shale stratum to create a mass of shale rubble, suitable for in situ retorting, is increased by hydraulically fracturing prior to the explosion a portion of the stratum above the level of the stratum which will be shattered by the explosion.
Inventors
- 👤 Harry W Parker
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-06 20:10
CPC Classifications
E; E21; E21B; E21B43/00; E21B43/25; E21B43/26; E21B43/263; E21B43/2635
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 4
Claim 1
Independent Claim
24 words
The method of claim 1 wherein said plurality of bore holes and said central bore hole are used in combination to fracture said stratum.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
11 words
The method of claim 1 wherein said stratum is hydraulically fractured.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
11 words
The method of claim 1 wherein said hydraulic fractures are propped.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
23 words
The method of claim 1 also including the step of fracturing said stratum within the limits of said anticipated normal initial collapse chimney.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1974-07-19 | 1975-01-18 | 1975-07-20 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1978-07-19 | 1979-01-18 | 1979-07-20 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1982-07-19 | 1983-01-18 | 1983-07-20 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |