US20120247789A1 - A fluid composition for use in inflatable bag plugging of an earth bore hole - Google Patents
A fluid composition for use in inflatable bag plugging of an earth bore hole Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20120247789A1 US20120247789A1 US13/509,006 US201013509006A US2012247789A1 US 20120247789 A1 US20120247789 A1 US 20120247789A1 US 201013509006 A US201013509006 A US 201013509006A US 2012247789 A1 US2012247789 A1 US 2012247789A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- fluid composition
- hydrocarbon gas
- aerosol dispenser
- blend
- carrier
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 128
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 94
- 229930195733 hydrocarbon Natural products 0.000 claims abstract description 58
- 150000002430 hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 claims abstract description 58
- 239000004215 Carbon black (E152) Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 55
- 239000004479 aerosol dispenser Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 32
- 239000003995 emulsifying agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 23
- ATUOYWHBWRKTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Propane Chemical compound CCC ATUOYWHBWRKTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 16
- 229920002125 Sokalan® Polymers 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N Acrylic acid Chemical compound OC(=O)C=C NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 229960001631 carbomer Drugs 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 235000013162 Cocos nucifera Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 244000060011 Cocos nucifera Species 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 239000001273 butane Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- IJDNQMDRQITEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-butane Chemical compound CCCC IJDNQMDRQITEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- OFBQJSOFQDEBGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-pentane Natural products CCCCC OFBQJSOFQDEBGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 239000001294 propane Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 claims description 58
- LFQSCWFLJHTTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ethanol Chemical compound CCO LFQSCWFLJHTTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 34
- 239000007864 aqueous solution Substances 0.000 claims description 14
- 239000003380 propellant Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 150000001298 alcohols Chemical class 0.000 claims description 5
- CSCPPACGZOOCGX-UHFFFAOYSA-N Acetone Chemical compound CC(C)=O CSCPPACGZOOCGX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N Atomic nitrogen Chemical compound N#N IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920001903 high density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004700 high-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229910052757 nitrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 abstract 1
- FSYKKLYZXJSNPZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N sarcosine Chemical compound C[NH2+]CC([O-])=O FSYKKLYZXJSNPZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 9
- 239000004094 surface-active agent Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000000443 aerosol Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000008240 homogeneous mixture Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000003915 liquefied petroleum gas Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000013019 agitation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 3
- 238000005065 mining Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000376 reactant Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000004880 explosion Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000011435 rock Substances 0.000 description 2
- CDBYLPFSWZWCQE-UHFFFAOYSA-L Sodium Carbonate Chemical compound [Na+].[Na+].[O-]C([O-])=O CDBYLPFSWZWCQE-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 1
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003245 coal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002360 explosive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000005923 long-lasting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- DVEKCXOJTLDBFE-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-dodecyl-n,n-dimethylglycinate Chemical compound CCCCCCCCCCCC[N+](C)(C)CC([O-])=O DVEKCXOJTLDBFE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920002959 polymer blend Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000012858 resilient material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C09—DYES; PAINTS; POLISHES; NATURAL RESINS; ADHESIVES; COMPOSITIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; APPLICATIONS OF MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- C09K—MATERIALS FOR MISCELLANEOUS APPLICATIONS, NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- C09K3/00—Materials not provided for elsewhere
- C09K3/30—Materials not provided for elsewhere for aerosols
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C09—DYES; PAINTS; POLISHES; NATURAL RESINS; ADHESIVES; COMPOSITIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; APPLICATIONS OF MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- C09K—MATERIALS FOR MISCELLANEOUS APPLICATIONS, NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- C09K8/00—Compositions for drilling of boreholes or wells; Compositions for treating boreholes or wells, e.g. for completion or for remedial operations
- C09K8/42—Compositions for cementing, e.g. for cementing casings into boreholes; Compositions for plugging, e.g. for killing wells
- C09K8/426—Compositions for cementing, e.g. for cementing casings into boreholes; Compositions for plugging, e.g. for killing wells for plugging
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B33/00—Sealing or packing boreholes or wells
- E21B33/10—Sealing or packing boreholes or wells in the borehole
- E21B33/12—Packers; Plugs
- E21B33/127—Packers; Plugs with inflatable sleeve
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a fluid composition.
- the present invention relates to a fluid composition for use in pressurized container, such as an aerosol.
- gas bags are used as plugs in drill or bore holes in order to provide support for the surrounding rock and reduce the likelihood of rock fall.
- Conventional gas bags consist of a bag made from a resilient material (such as plastic) that is inflated by a gas produced during a chemical reaction that takes place in the bag, such as that of a mixture of an acid and a soda.
- a gas produced during a chemical reaction that takes place in the bag such as that of a mixture of an acid and a soda.
- these bags have the drawback of a high failure rate, for instance due to pre-inflation caused by a mixing of the reactants inside the bag during manufacture, storage, transportation and handling.
- the invention resides broadly in a fluid composition
- a fluid composition comprising a hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend, a carrier and an emulsifier.
- hydrocarbon gas may comprise butane or propane.
- propane such as Liquid Petroleum Gas or LPG
- LPG Liquid Petroleum Gas
- the carrier may be of any suitable form. However, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier is suitable for the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon blend to be dissolved or dispersed in the carrier. Thus, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier comprises water or a suitable dilute aqueous solution.
- any suitable type of emulsifier may be used in the fluid composition of the present invention.
- the precise nature of the emulsifier used in the fluid composition is not critical provided at the emulsifier assists in ensuring the fluid composition is a substantially homogeneous mixture.
- the emulsifier may have surfactant properties.
- a surfactant may also be added to the fluid composition.
- a skilled addressee will understand that any suitable surfactant may be used.
- the fluid composition may comprise any suitable ratio of components.
- the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend and carrier may together comprise up to about 99.9% of the fluid composition, while it is envisaged that the emulsifier may be present in quantities of up to about 10% of the fluid composition.
- the ratio of hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend to carrier in the fluid composition is not critical and may vary depending on the type of hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend and carrier used in the fluid composition. However, it will be understood that the fluid composition must comprise a sufficient quantity of each component in order for the fluid composition to form a substantially homogeneous mixture.
- the fluid composition may further comprise alcohol.
- Alcohol may be present in the fluid composition for a number of reasons, including reducing pressure in the container in which the fluid composition is stored and transported. Any suitable alcohol (or blend of alcohols) may be present. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the alcohol may be ethanol.
- the alcohol may assist in dissolving the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend in the carrier.
- the presence of alcohol in the fluid composition may assist in the creation of a foam when the fluid composition is dispensed from a dispenser.
- the addition of alcohol may assist in reducing the flammability of the fluid composition.
- the alcohol comprises no more than about 10% of the fluid composition.
- alternative substances to alcohol may be used.
- acetone may be used instead of alcohol.
- the fluid composition is substantially non-flammable.
- the invention resides broadly in an aerosol dispenser containing a fluid composition comprising a hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend, a carrier and an emulsifier.
- hydrocarbon gas may comprise butane or propane.
- propane such as Liquid Petroleum Gas or LPG
- LPG Liquid Petroleum Gas
- the carrier may be of any suitable form. However, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier is suitable for the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon blend to be dissolved or dispersed in the carrier. Thus, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier comprises water or a suitable dilute aqueous solution.
- the dilute aqueous solution may contain any suitable material.
- the aqueous solution my contain one or more compounds or the like.
- the aqueous solution may one or more carbomers. Any suitable carbomer may be used.
- the carbomer may include a cross-linked polyacrylic acid polymer such as Ultrez 10 manufactured by the Lubrizol Corporation.
- the carbomer may be present in any suitable quantity in the aqueous solution. In some embodiments, the carbomer may be present in an amount of no more than 10%. More preferably, the carbomer may be present in an amount of no more than 5%. Still more preferably, the carbomer may be present in an amount of no more than 1%. In one particular embodiment, the carbomer is present in an amount of about 0.5% of the aqueous solution.
- the aqueous solution may include further compounds in addition to, or instead of, the carbomer.
- Such compounds may include coco betaine (such as that manufactured under the trade name Empigen BB) or coconut diethanolamide (such as that manufactured under the trade name Empilan FD).
- the coco betaine or coconut diethanolamide is present in an amount of less than 50% of the aqueous solution. More preferably, the coco betaine or coconut diethanolamide is present in an amount of less than 25% of the aqueous solution. Most preferably, the coco betaine or coconut diethanolamide is present in an amount of about 10% of the aqueous solution.
- the aqueous solution may include about 0.5% carbomer and about 10% coconut diethanolamide.
- the advantages of this combination of components includes the production of a relatively long-lasting foam and a significant reduction in flammability. Specifically, the use of these components produces a slow burning fluid composition, but one which does not burn explosively.
- the use of these components will result in a fluid composition that requires mechanical agitation.
- the container or vessel in which the fluid composition is provided may require agitation (such as by shaking the container) after the container is gassed and/or prior to dispensing the contents of the container.
- coco betaine or coconut diethanolamide could be used in the fluid composition
- coconut diethanolamide is used in preference to coco betaine. This is because it has been found that fluid compositions using coco betaine produce a relatively short-lasting foam and a fast burning (but not explosive) foam. On the other hand, the fluid composition using coco betaine does not require any mechanical agitation.
- emulsifiers While some specific emulsifiers have been described above (carbomer, coconut diethanolamide and coco betaine), it is envisaged that any suitable type of emulsifier may be used in the fluid composition of the present invention.
- the precise nature of the emulsifier used in the fluid composition is not critical provided at the emulsifier assists in ensuring the fluid composition is a substantially homogeneous mixture.
- the emulsifier may have surfactant properties.
- a surfactant may also be added to the fluid composition. A skilled addressee will understand that any suitable surfactant may be used.
- the fluid composition may comprise any suitable ratio of components.
- the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend and carrier may together comprise up to about 99.9% of the fluid composition, while it is envisaged that the emulsifier may be present in quantities of up to about 25% of the fluid composition, and preferably up to about 10.5% of the fluid composition.
- the ratio of hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend to carrier in the fluid composition is not critical and may vary depending on the type of hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend and carrier used in the fluid composition. However, it will be understood that the fluid composition must comprise a sufficient quantity of each component in order for the fluid composition to form a substantially homogeneous mixture.
- the fluid composition may further comprise alcohol. Any suitable alcohol (or blend of alcohols) may be present.
- the alcohol may be ethanol.
- the alcohol may assist in dissolving the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend in the carrier.
- the presence of alcohol in the fluid composition may assist in the creation of a foam when the fluid composition is dispensed from a dispenser.
- the addition of alcohol may assist in reducing the flammability of the fluid composition, and may reduce the pressure of the fluid composition in the container in which it is stored and transported.
- the alcohol comprises no more than about 10% of the fluid composition.
- the aerosol dispenser may further comprise a propellant.
- a propellant Any suitable propellant may be used, such as, but not limited to, a hydrocarbon or combination of hydrocarbons, air, nitrogen or the like, or any combination thereof, or indeed any other propellant known to a person skilled in the art.
- the propellant may be added to the fluid composition prior to the fluid composition being added to the aerosol dispenser.
- the difference in pressure between the interior of the aerosol dispenser and the ambient environment may be sufficient to propel the fluid composition out of the aerosol dispenser on actuation of the aerosol dispenser without requiring the addition of a propellant.
- the fluid composition may be provided in any suitable aerosol dispenser.
- the aerosol dispenser is adapted to house a pressurized fluid.
- the aerosol dispenser may be fabricated from metal, plastic or any suitable polymer blend or the like, or any combination thereof.
- the aerosol dispenser is an aerosol can.
- the ratio of the components in the fluid composition is such that, as the fluid composition is dispensed from the aerosol dispenser, the fluid composition forms a foam.
- the invention resides broadly in a system for plugging a drill hole or bore hole, the system comprising:
- the inflatable container is fabricated from a resilient, substantially leak-proof material.
- the inflatable container may be fabricated from plastic, such as, but not limited to HDPE.
- the fluid composition may further comprise alcohol. Any suitable alcohol (or blend of alcohols) may be present.
- the alcohol may be ethanol.
- the invention resides broadly in a method of plugging a drill hole or bole hole comprising the steps of:
- the fluid composition may further comprise alcohol. Any suitable alcohol (or blend of alcohols) may be present.
- the alcohol may be ethanol.
- the present invention provides the advantage of reducing or eliminating the likelihood of pre-inflation of the inflatable container by separating the reactants in the manner discussed.
- the resulting gas that inflates the inflatable container is substantially non-flammable, thereby reducing the likelihood of fire or explosion. It will be clearly understood that reducing the likelihood of fire or explosion in a mining environment (and especially in a coal mining environment) is a significant advantage.
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Geology (AREA)
- Materials Engineering (AREA)
- Organic Chemistry (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
- Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
- Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a fluid composition. In particular, the present invention relates to a fluid composition for use in pressurized container, such as an aerosol.
- The use of gas bags in the mining industry is well established. Typically, gas bags are used as plugs in drill or bore holes in order to provide support for the surrounding rock and reduce the likelihood of rock fall.
- Conventional gas bags consist of a bag made from a resilient material (such as plastic) that is inflated by a gas produced during a chemical reaction that takes place in the bag, such as that of a mixture of an acid and a soda. However, these bags have the drawback of a high failure rate, for instance due to pre-inflation caused by a mixing of the reactants inside the bag during manufacture, storage, transportation and handling.
- Some attempts have been made to overcome this problem. For instance, some attempts to use aerosols in gas bags have been made. The use of an aerosol reduces the likelihood of pre-inflation by keeping the reactants separate until such time as the aerosol is activated. However, aerosol propellants such as hydrocarbons result in an inflated gas bag being filled with a flammable gas.
- Thus, there would be an advantage if it were possible to provide a fluid composition that allowed for the efficient and effective inflation of a gas bag, but which did not result in the gas bag being filled with a flammable fluid.
- It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.
- Throughout this specification, the term “comprising” and its grammatical equivalents shall be taken to have an inclusive meaning unless the context of use, indicates otherwise.
- It is an object of the present invention to provide a fluid composition which may overcome at least some of the abovementioned disadvantages, or provide a useful or commercial choice.
- In a first aspect, the invention resides broadly in a fluid composition comprising a hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend, a carrier and an emulsifier.
- Any suitable hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend may be used. For instance, the hydrocarbon gas may comprise butane or propane. In some embodiments of the invention, a blend of butane and propane (such as Liquid Petroleum Gas or LPG) may be used. A skilled addressee will understand that the relative proportions of butane and propane in the hydrocarbon gas blend are not critical and may vary as necessary.
- The carrier may be of any suitable form. However, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier is suitable for the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon blend to be dissolved or dispersed in the carrier. Thus, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier comprises water or a suitable dilute aqueous solution.
- Any suitable type of emulsifier may be used in the fluid composition of the present invention. The precise nature of the emulsifier used in the fluid composition is not critical provided at the emulsifier assists in ensuring the fluid composition is a substantially homogeneous mixture. In some embodiments, the emulsifier may have surfactant properties. Alternatively, it is envisaged that, if required, a surfactant may also be added to the fluid composition. A skilled addressee will understand that any suitable surfactant may be used.
- The fluid composition may comprise any suitable ratio of components. For instance, the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend and carrier may together comprise up to about 99.9% of the fluid composition, while it is envisaged that the emulsifier may be present in quantities of up to about 10% of the fluid composition.
- The ratio of hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend to carrier in the fluid composition is not critical and may vary depending on the type of hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend and carrier used in the fluid composition. However, it will be understood that the fluid composition must comprise a sufficient quantity of each component in order for the fluid composition to form a substantially homogeneous mixture.
- In some embodiments of the present invention, the fluid composition may further comprise alcohol. Alcohol may be present in the fluid composition for a number of reasons, including reducing pressure in the container in which the fluid composition is stored and transported. Any suitable alcohol (or blend of alcohols) may be present. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the alcohol may be ethanol.
- In embodiments of the invention in which alcohol is present, the alcohol may assist in dissolving the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend in the carrier. In addition, the presence of alcohol in the fluid composition may assist in the creation of a foam when the fluid composition is dispensed from a dispenser. Still further, the addition of alcohol may assist in reducing the flammability of the fluid composition.
- When present, it is preferred that the alcohol comprises no more than about 10% of the fluid composition.
- In some embodiments of, the invention, alternative substances to alcohol may be used. For instance, in one embodiment, acetone may be used instead of alcohol.
- In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fluid composition is substantially non-flammable.
- In another aspect, the invention resides broadly in an aerosol dispenser containing a fluid composition comprising a hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend, a carrier and an emulsifier.
- Any suitable hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend may be used. For instance, the hydrocarbon gas may comprise butane or propane. In some embodiments of the invention, a blend of butane and propane (such as Liquid Petroleum Gas or LPG) may be used. A skilled addressee will understand that the relative proportions of butane and propane in the hydrocarbon gas blend are not critical and may vary as necessary.
- The carrier may be of any suitable form. However, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier is suitable for the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon blend to be dissolved or dispersed in the carrier. Thus, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the carrier comprises water or a suitable dilute aqueous solution.
- In embodiments of the invention in which the carrier is a dilute aqueous solution, the dilute aqueous solution may contain any suitable material. For instance, the aqueous solution my contain one or more compounds or the like. For instance, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the aqueous solution may one or more carbomers. Any suitable carbomer may be used. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the carbomer may include a cross-linked polyacrylic acid polymer such as Ultrez 10 manufactured by the Lubrizol Corporation.
- The carbomer may be present in any suitable quantity in the aqueous solution. In some embodiments, the carbomer may be present in an amount of no more than 10%. More preferably, the carbomer may be present in an amount of no more than 5%. Still more preferably, the carbomer may be present in an amount of no more than 1%. In one particular embodiment, the carbomer is present in an amount of about 0.5% of the aqueous solution.
- In some embodiments of the invention, the aqueous solution may include further compounds in addition to, or instead of, the carbomer. Such compounds may include coco betaine (such as that manufactured under the trade name Empigen BB) or coconut diethanolamide (such as that manufactured under the trade name Empilan FD). In some embodiments of the invention, the coco betaine or coconut diethanolamide is present in an amount of less than 50% of the aqueous solution. More preferably, the coco betaine or coconut diethanolamide is present in an amount of less than 25% of the aqueous solution. Most preferably, the coco betaine or coconut diethanolamide is present in an amount of about 10% of the aqueous solution.
- In one embodiment, the aqueous solution may include about 0.5% carbomer and about 10% coconut diethanolamide. The advantages of this combination of components includes the production of a relatively long-lasting foam and a significant reduction in flammability. Specifically, the use of these components produces a slow burning fluid composition, but one which does not burn explosively.
- It is envisaged that the use of these components will result in a fluid composition that requires mechanical agitation. For instance, the container or vessel in which the fluid composition is provided may require agitation (such as by shaking the container) after the container is gassed and/or prior to dispensing the contents of the container.
- Although it has been stated that either coco betaine or coconut diethanolamide could be used in the fluid composition, it is preferred that coconut diethanolamide is used in preference to coco betaine. This is because it has been found that fluid compositions using coco betaine produce a relatively short-lasting foam and a fast burning (but not explosive) foam. On the other hand, the fluid composition using coco betaine does not require any mechanical agitation.
- While some specific emulsifiers have been described above (carbomer, coconut diethanolamide and coco betaine), it is envisaged that any suitable type of emulsifier may be used in the fluid composition of the present invention. The precise nature of the emulsifier used in the fluid composition is not critical provided at the emulsifier assists in ensuring the fluid composition is a substantially homogeneous mixture. In some embodiments, the emulsifier may have surfactant properties. Alternatively, it is envisaged that, if required, a surfactant may also be added to the fluid composition. A skilled addressee will understand that any suitable surfactant may be used.
- The fluid composition may comprise any suitable ratio of components. For instance, the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend and carrier may together comprise up to about 99.9% of the fluid composition, while it is envisaged that the emulsifier may be present in quantities of up to about 25% of the fluid composition, and preferably up to about 10.5% of the fluid composition.
- The ratio of hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend to carrier in the fluid composition is not critical and may vary depending on the type of hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend and carrier used in the fluid composition. However, it will be understood that the fluid composition must comprise a sufficient quantity of each component in order for the fluid composition to form a substantially homogeneous mixture.
- In some embodiments of the present invention, the fluid composition may further comprise alcohol. Any suitable alcohol (or blend of alcohols) may be present. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the alcohol may be ethanol.
- In embodiments of the invention in which alcohol is present, the alcohol may assist in dissolving the hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend in the carrier. In addition, the presence of alcohol in the fluid composition may assist in the creation of a foam when the fluid composition is dispensed from a dispenser. Still further, the addition of alcohol may assist in reducing the flammability of the fluid composition, and may reduce the pressure of the fluid composition in the container in which it is stored and transported.
- When present, it is preferred that the alcohol comprises no more than about 10% of the fluid composition.
- In some embodiments, the aerosol dispenser may further comprise a propellant. Any suitable propellant may be used, such as, but not limited to, a hydrocarbon or combination of hydrocarbons, air, nitrogen or the like, or any combination thereof, or indeed any other propellant known to a person skilled in the art.
- In other embodiments of the present invention, the propellant may be added to the fluid composition prior to the fluid composition being added to the aerosol dispenser.
- In an alternative embodiment the difference in pressure between the interior of the aerosol dispenser and the ambient environment may be sufficient to propel the fluid composition out of the aerosol dispenser on actuation of the aerosol dispenser without requiring the addition of a propellant.
- The fluid composition may be provided in any suitable aerosol dispenser. Preferably, the aerosol dispenser is adapted to house a pressurized fluid. Thus, the aerosol dispenser may be fabricated from metal, plastic or any suitable polymer blend or the like, or any combination thereof. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the aerosol dispenser is an aerosol can.
- Desirably, the ratio of the components in the fluid composition is such that, as the fluid composition is dispensed from the aerosol dispenser, the fluid composition forms a foam.
- In yet another aspect, the invention resides broadly in a system for plugging a drill hole or bore hole, the system comprising:
-
- an inflatable container, and
- an aerosol dispenser located within the inflatable container and containing an fluid composition comprising a hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend, a carrier and an emulsifier,
- wherein upon activation, the aerosol dispenser dispenses the fluid composition to cause inflation of the inflatable container.
- Any suitable inflatable container may be used in the present invention. Preferably, however, the inflatable container is fabricated from a resilient, substantially leak-proof material. For instance, the inflatable container may be fabricated from plastic, such as, but not limited to HDPE.
- In some embodiments of the present invention, the fluid composition may further comprise alcohol. Any suitable alcohol (or blend of alcohols) may be present. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the alcohol may be ethanol.
- In yet another aspect, the invention resides broadly in a method of plugging a drill hole or bole hole comprising the steps of:
-
- a) providing an inflatable container including an aerosol dispenser containing a fluid composition comprising a hydrocarbon gas or hydrocarbon gas blend, a carrier and an emulsifier;
- b) at least partially inserting the inflatable container into a drill hole or bore hole;
- c) activating the aerosol dispenser to cause inflation of the inflatable container.
- In some embodiments of the present invention, the fluid composition may further comprise alcohol. Any suitable alcohol (or blend of alcohols) may be present. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the alcohol may be ethanol.
- A skilled addressee will understand that the present invention provides the advantage of reducing or eliminating the likelihood of pre-inflation of the inflatable container by separating the reactants in the manner discussed. In addition, on inflation, the resulting gas that inflates the inflatable container is substantially non-flammable, thereby reducing the likelihood of fire or explosion. It will be clearly understood that reducing the likelihood of fire or explosion in a mining environment (and especially in a coal mining environment) is a significant advantage.
- Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It will be understood that the present invention encompasses all such variations and modifications that fall within its spirit and scope.
- In addition, those skilled in the art will understand that the percentages of each component in the fluid composition referred to herein could be weight % or volume %.
Claims (20)
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2009905530A AU2009905530A0 (en) | 2009-11-11 | A fluid composition | |
AU2009905530 | 2009-11-11 | ||
PCT/AU2010/001499 WO2011057329A1 (en) | 2009-11-11 | 2010-11-10 | A fluid composition for use in inflatable bag plugging of an earth bore hole |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20120247789A1 true US20120247789A1 (en) | 2012-10-04 |
Family
ID=43365397
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/509,006 Abandoned US20120247789A1 (en) | 2009-11-11 | 2010-11-10 | A fluid composition for use in inflatable bag plugging of an earth bore hole |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20120247789A1 (en) |
AU (2) | AU2010101244A4 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2011057329A1 (en) |
ZA (1) | ZA201203189B (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20120234553A1 (en) * | 2011-03-17 | 2012-09-20 | Murphy Kent D | Mechanism for plugging subsea leaks |
Citations (9)
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US4846278A (en) * | 1986-05-21 | 1989-07-11 | Du Pont (Australia) Ltd. | Borehole plug and method |
US5346005A (en) * | 1991-12-24 | 1994-09-13 | Sanleo Holdings Pty. Ltd. | Inflatable borehole plug assemblies |
US6302202B1 (en) * | 2000-01-28 | 2001-10-16 | Gregory James Moore | Inflatable plug assembly for borehole |
US20040055760A1 (en) * | 2002-09-20 | 2004-03-25 | Nguyen Philip D. | Method and apparatus for forming an annular barrier in a wellbore |
US20040091427A1 (en) * | 2002-11-08 | 2004-05-13 | Moodycliffe Timothy I | Aerosol biliquid foam |
US20090305876A1 (en) * | 2006-06-26 | 2009-12-10 | Honeywell International, Inc. | Compositions and Methods Containing Fluorine Substituted Olefins |
US20110037016A1 (en) * | 2003-10-27 | 2011-02-17 | Honeywell International Inc. | Fluoropropene compounds and compositions and methods using same |
US20120128964A1 (en) * | 2010-11-19 | 2012-05-24 | Honeywell International Inc. | Azeotrope-like compositions comprising 1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene |
US20120161063A1 (en) * | 2003-10-27 | 2012-06-28 | Honeywell International Inc. | Monochlorotrifluoropropene compounds and compositions and mehtods using same |
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GB1479706A (en) * | 1975-02-27 | 1977-07-13 | Wilkinson Sword Ltd | Aerosol foams |
US4778674A (en) * | 1986-05-28 | 1988-10-18 | Richardson-Vicks Inc. | Dry aerosol foam |
US5156765A (en) * | 1990-05-15 | 1992-10-20 | Fox Valley Systems, Inc. | Aerosol foam marking compositions |
AU9329598A (en) * | 1997-11-19 | 1999-06-10 | Mintech Pty Ltd | Inflatable bore hole plugs and methods of use |
AU763474B2 (en) * | 1999-01-04 | 2003-07-24 | Crinum Ip Pty Ltd | Borehole plugs |
AU2001100469A4 (en) * | 2001-10-11 | 2001-11-22 | Subpro Pty Ltd | An inflatable bore hole plug having a heat exchange medium in the bag |
AU2005100115A4 (en) * | 2005-02-09 | 2005-03-24 | Jadefoil | Inflation Medium |
-
2010
- 2010-11-10 WO PCT/AU2010/001499 patent/WO2011057329A1/en active Application Filing
- 2010-11-10 AU AU2010101244A patent/AU2010101244A4/en not_active Ceased
- 2010-11-10 AU AU2010317654A patent/AU2010317654B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2010-11-10 US US13/509,006 patent/US20120247789A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2012
- 2012-05-03 ZA ZA2012/03189A patent/ZA201203189B/en unknown
Patent Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4846278A (en) * | 1986-05-21 | 1989-07-11 | Du Pont (Australia) Ltd. | Borehole plug and method |
US5346005A (en) * | 1991-12-24 | 1994-09-13 | Sanleo Holdings Pty. Ltd. | Inflatable borehole plug assemblies |
US6302202B1 (en) * | 2000-01-28 | 2001-10-16 | Gregory James Moore | Inflatable plug assembly for borehole |
US20040055760A1 (en) * | 2002-09-20 | 2004-03-25 | Nguyen Philip D. | Method and apparatus for forming an annular barrier in a wellbore |
US6935432B2 (en) * | 2002-09-20 | 2005-08-30 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Method and apparatus for forming an annular barrier in a wellbore |
US20040091427A1 (en) * | 2002-11-08 | 2004-05-13 | Moodycliffe Timothy I | Aerosol biliquid foam |
US20110037016A1 (en) * | 2003-10-27 | 2011-02-17 | Honeywell International Inc. | Fluoropropene compounds and compositions and methods using same |
US20120161063A1 (en) * | 2003-10-27 | 2012-06-28 | Honeywell International Inc. | Monochlorotrifluoropropene compounds and compositions and mehtods using same |
US20090305876A1 (en) * | 2006-06-26 | 2009-12-10 | Honeywell International, Inc. | Compositions and Methods Containing Fluorine Substituted Olefins |
US20120128964A1 (en) * | 2010-11-19 | 2012-05-24 | Honeywell International Inc. | Azeotrope-like compositions comprising 1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20120234553A1 (en) * | 2011-03-17 | 2012-09-20 | Murphy Kent D | Mechanism for plugging subsea leaks |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU2010101244A4 (en) | 2010-12-23 |
WO2011057329A1 (en) | 2011-05-19 |
AU2010317654B2 (en) | 2014-09-18 |
ZA201203189B (en) | 2013-01-30 |
AU2010317654A1 (en) | 2012-06-14 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SUBPRO PTY LTD, AUSTRALIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GANE, WILLIAM LEE;REEL/FRAME:028318/0819 Effective date: 20120406 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SUBPRO PTY LTD, AUSTRALIA Free format text: CORRECTIVE ASSIGNMENT TO CORRECT THE INCORRECT SERIAL NUMBER: 13/509,066 AND INCORRECT DATE OF EXECUTION: 04/06/2012 PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ON REEL 028318 FRAME 0819. ASSIGNOR(S) HEREBY CONFIRMS THE THE ASSIGNMENT;ASSIGNOR:GANE, WILLIAM LEE;REEL/FRAME:028333/0589 Effective date: 20120604 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |