Functionalized Proppants for Sequestering Emissions and Enhancing Hydrocarbon Recovery
This technology integrates high-strength support properties with chemical functionalities that actively sequester target species such as CO2, H2S, and other pollutants from combustion emissions and flow-back water. It is engineered with multiple configurations, including homogeneous compositions entirely made of carbon-absorbing materials and layered structures that combine a conventional core with an intermediate reactive coating. An additional outer layer can protect the reactive material during hydraulic fracturing while controlling permeability and degradability. This design allows the material to be injected as part of fracturing fluid, where it simultaneously holds open fractures and chemically captures harmful compounds.
Description
What differentiates this technology is its dual-capability approach—merging physical propping with environmental remediation. The engineered layering and use of inventive reactive materials enable precise interaction with target chemicals, offering a safe disposal mechanism while enhancing well performance. Advanced manufacturing techniques, such as sintering and specialized coatings, ensure optimal sphericity and crush resistance. This responsive design not only improves hydrocarbon recovery but also contributes to a reduction in the carbon footprint by effectively sequestering emissions directly within the formation.Applications
Enhanced Hydrocarbon RecoveryCarbon Emission Sequestration
Flowback Water Remediation
Closed-loop Energy Cycle
Advantages
Enhanced hydrocarbon recovery through improved fracture conductivity and proppant pack integrityEffective sequestration of harmful emissions such as CO₂, H₂S, and other contaminants
Mitigation of the carbon footprint by capturing and immobilizing combustion byproducts
Economic benefits from combining production enhancement with environmental remediation