Downhole burner wells for in situ conversion of organic-rich rock formations

A method for in situ heating of an organic-rich rock formation is provided Preferably the organic- ch rock formation comprises kerogen. The method may include the steps of providing a first wellbore extending at least to a depth of the organic-rich rock formation, and providing a second wellbore also extending to a depth of the organic-rich rock formation and intersecting the first wellbore. The method may also include injecting air and a combustible fuel into the first wellbore, and providing a downhole burner in the wellbore so as to cause the air and the combustible fuel to mix and to combust at substantially the depth of the organic-rich rock formation. The method may further include circulating combustion products into and up the second wellbore.