Progress of Technological Innovation of the United States’ Shale Petroleum Industry Based on Patent Data Association Rules

This study analyzed the technological progress of the United States’ shale and tight petroleum (natural gas and crude oil) industry based on the association rules of its patents. According to the findings, although the production of shale oil and gas began in 2007, evidence of increasing technological developments in this industry assessed by patent applications began to appear only in 2010. In addition, the results showed that two distinct technological domains developed in 2010. Moreover, frequently developed technology classification networks are likely to contribute to the growth of this industry.