Inventors:
Leonard V. Grego - Bakersfield CA
Ricky C. Ng - Dallas TX
Craig H. Phelps - Bakersfield CA
Assignee:
Mobil Oil Corporation - Fairfax VA
International Classification:
E21B 33138
E21B 4324
Abstract:
A method for selectively closing an intermediate zone of a near wellbore area in a formation. Initially, a drillable mechanical packer is placed into the wellbore below the intermediate zone. The wellbore area adjacent to the intermediate zone is cooled to a critical temperature between about 130. degree. to about 180. degree. F. Subsequently, a novolac or resole-type phenolformaldehyde resin containing an acid catalyst is placed into the wellbore where it forms a solid platform over the packer and intermediate zone in about 2 hours. The critical temperature is maintained in the wellbore and intermediate zone while placing a second resinous material containing an alkaline catalyst into the wellbore and intermediate zone. Thereafter, the second material forms a steam resistant solid gel in the intermediate zone, thereby closing it.