This invention is directed to a composition comprising expandable cross linked polymeric microparticles having an unexpanded volume average particle size diameter of from about 0.05 to about 10 microns and a cross linking agent content of from about 9,000 to about 200,000 ppm of labile cross linkers and from 0 to about 300 ppm of non-labile cross linkers and to the use of the composition for modifying the permeability of subterranean formations and increasing the mobilization and/or recovery rate of hydrocarbon fluids present in the formations. |