Method and apparatus for plugging a wellbore in high impulse fracturing

Abstract From the Canadian patent

A method and apparatus is provided for plugging a wellbore with a solid gel plug stem in high impulse or high energy fracturing, which method (i) facilities the removal of the propellant canister support means, the propellant ignition means as, well as any debris adhering thereto; and (ii) minimizes damage to the wellbore and formation. The wellbore is sealed by pumping a gel mixture, for example containing hydroxypropyl guar gum and water into the wellbore after suspension of containment means and a canister for propellant at a predetermined level within the wellbore. The propellant is ignited and thereafter the solid gel is broken down and easily removable from the wellbore with little or …