Clusters of micron- and nano-sized proppant for use in subterranean operations

摘要

Compositions and methods for forming and using clusters of micron- and/or nano-sized solid materials (e.g., particulates, fibers, etc.) as proppants in subterranean operations are provided. In one embodiment, the methods comprise: providing a fracturing fluid comprising a base fluid, a plurality of small-sized solid materials and one or more surface modifying agents; forming a plurality of proppant clusters, each proppant cluster comprising two or more of the small-sized solid materials bound together with a portion of the one or more surface modifying agents; and introducing the fracturing fluid into a well bore penetrating at least a portion of a subterranean formation at or above a pressure sufficient to create or enhance one or more fractures in the portion of the subterranean formation.