| abstract |
In one embodiment, a method of treating a subterranean formation is provided comprising the steps of providing a gelled liquid hydrocarbon treatment fluid comprising a liquid hydrocarbon and a gelling agent that comprises a polyvalent metal salt of an organophosphonic acid ester or a polyvalent metal salt of an organophosphonic acid, and treating the subterranean formation with the gelled liquid hydrocarbon treatment fluid. The gelled liquid hydrocarbon treatment fluids are suitable for use in subterranean treatment operations, such as subterranean stimulation and sand control treatments like fracturing and gravel packing, that may be carried out in subterranean formations for the production of hydrocarbons. The compositions and methods also may be suitable, for example, to be used as plugging agents, well bore cleanup fluids, viscous sweep fluids, or insulating fluids to be used in associated methods. |