A device for perforating and fracturing a formation in a single trip
includes shaped charges and a volume of a gas generator. When activated
by detonation of the shaped charges, the gas generator forms a
high-pressure gas, which includes steam, that expands to stress and
fracture the formation. Suitable gas generating materials include
hydrates and hydroxides. Other materials that can be employed with the
gas generator include oxidizers and material such as metals that increase
the available heat for the activation of the gas generator.