Patent ID: 11326434

Abstract:
Methods for enhancing the conductivity of fractures in a subterranean formation using electrically controlled propellants are provided. In some embodiments, the methods comprise: introducing an electrically controlled propellant into one or more secondary boreholes in a subterranean formation near a main well bore that penetrates the subterranean formation; igniting the electrically controlled propellant in the secondary boreholes, whereby at least a portion of the region of the subterranean formation near the secondary borehole is at least partially ruptured by the ignition of the electrically controlled propellant in the secondary boreholes; and introducing a fracturing fluid into the main wellbore at or above a pressure sufficient to create or enhance at least one primary fracture in the subterranean formation that extends into at least a portion of the ruptured region of the subterranean formation.