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Abstract

Thermoset polymer particles are used in many applications requiring lightweight particles possessing high stiffness, strength, temperature resistance, and/or resistance to aggressive environments. The present invention relates to the use of methods to enhance the stiffness, strength, maximum possible use temperature, and environmental resistance of such particles. One method of particular interest is the application of post-polymerization process step(s) (and especially heat treatment) to advance the curing reaction and to thus obtain a more densely crosslinked polymer network. The most common benefits of said heat treatment are the enhancement of the maximum possible use temperature and the environmental resistance. The present invention also relates to the development of thermoset polymer particles. It also relates to the further improvement of the key properties (in particular, heat resistance and environmental resistance) of said particles via post-polymerization heat treatment. Furthermore, it also relates to processes for the manufacture of said particles. Finally, it also relates to the use of said particles in the construction, drilling, completion and/or fracture stimulation of oil and natural gas wells; for example, as a proppant partial monolayer, a proppant pack, an integral component of a gravel pack completion, a ball bearing, a solid lubricant, a drilling mud constituent, and/or a cement additive.

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First Claim