Inventors:
Ronald E. Smith - Littleton CO
Assignee:
Marathon Oil Company - Findlay OH
International Classification:
E21B 33138
Abstract:
A process for reducing the permeability of a high permeability region in a subterranean hydrocarbon-bearing formation by preparing an aqueous gelation solution at the surface comprised of a water-soluble polymer, a metal carboxylate crosslinking agent and a carboxylic acid delaying agent. The delaying agent substantially delays gelation of the solution until it is injected and in place in the desired treatment region.