| abstract |
The present invention provides methods of controlling the growth of one or more vertically oriented fractures in a subterranean formation during a fracturing treatment. A first fluid having a known density and containing a diverting agent is introduced into a formation to create a fracture. A second fluid which may contain proppant and having a known density different from the first fluid then is introduced into the fracture whereby the second fluid selectively overrides or underrides the first fluid. Such fluid control forces the first fluid to the bottom or top of the fracture whereby the diverting agent therein is caused to screen out and impede further downward or upward growth of the fracture. The introduction of the second fluid then can be continued to extend the fracture as desired. |