US3687197A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Method for extracting bitumen from tar sands
Assignee: Canadian Fina Oil Ltd
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Filing: 1970-11-25
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Granted: 1972-08-29
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Expires: 1990-11-25
Abstract
Abstract Hot caustic solution is injected into an unconsolidated silty lens extending through the Athabasca bitumen reservoir between injection and production wells. Over a period of time part of the lens is rendered movable. The mud is forced to the production well and removed therefrom, leaving a steam-permeable communications zone extending between the wells. Steam can then be injected into the zone to heat the bitumen and form an emulsion which can be forced to the production well. In this way, bitumen is recovered at the surface.
Inventors
- 👤 David Arthur Redford
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-04 23:20
CPC Classifications
E; E21; E21B; E21B43/00; E21B43/16; E21B43/24
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 1
Claim 1
Independent Claim
12 words
The method of claim 1 wherein the solution is a caustic solution.
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) | 1975-08-29 | 1976-02-28 | 1976-08-29 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1979-08-29 | 1980-02-28 | 1980-08-29 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1983-08-29 | 1984-02-28 | 1984-08-29 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |