Abstract:
A method of initiating in situ combustion in a subterranean hydrocarbon-bearing formation wherein a substance capable of reacting with hydrogen peroxide is introduced into the formation via a well bore and thereafter a mixture of hydrogen peroxide containing from 10 to 20 percent by weight of water is injected to effect an exothermic reaction thereby to increase the temperature of the formation adjacent the well bore to the ignition temperature of the hydrocarbons contained therein and resulting in ignition of those hydrocarbons and the initiation of an in situ combustion.