Method to classify and select proppants
Methods to classify a proppant with respect to functional performance is described and includes measuring a coefficient of restitution for the proppant. Methods to select a proppant, methods to design a proppant, methods to predict proppant performance in a subterranean formation, and methods for providing product specifications for proppants are also described as well as other uses.
1. A method to classify a proppant with respect to functional performance in a subterranean formation, said method comprising:
providing the proppant, wherein the proppant comprise a sintered metal oxide coating on a ceramic core,
dropping the proppant on a surface; and
sorting particles of the proppant based upon a rebound distance of the proppant.
2. A method to select a proppant for use in a subterranean formation, said method comprising:
providing the proppant, wherein the proppant comprise a sintered metal oxide coating on a ceramic core;
determining a coefficient of restitution for the proppant, the determining comprising dropping the proppant on a surface, measuring a rebound height, and calculating the coefficient using the rebound height;
comparing the coefficient of restitution of the proppant to a coefficient of restitution of a control proppant; and
selecting the proppant if the coefficient of restitution of the proppant is at least 10% greater than the coefficient of restitution of the control proppant.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of dropping is performed on a horizontal surface.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of dropping is performed on a surface slanted at 25 degrees to 45 degrees.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of dropping is performed on a glass surface.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the proppant comprises proppant from a single production batch.
7. The method of claim 2 , wherein the step of dropping is performed on a horizontal surface.
8. The method of claim 2 , wherein the step of dropping is performed on a surface slanted at 25 degrees to 45 degrees.
9. The method of claim 2 , wherein the step of dropping is performed on a glass surface.
10. The method of claim 2 , wherein the control proppant is 20/40 mesh Ottawa sand.
11. The method of claim 2 , wherein the step of determining comprises dropping the proppant from more than one height.
12. The method of claim 2 , wherein the height is from 4 inches to 12 inches.