Abstract:

One of the key geomechanical parameters utilized to unlock fractured reservoirs is the reactivation potential of existing natural fractures. Reservoir depletion and/or injection can significantly perturb the initial stress state, which may then lead to reactivation of existing fractures. The reactivation phenomenon could have a significant impact on the stimulated rock volume (SRV) by creating additional flow paths, which within the reservoir might be desirable. In particular, if known a priori, reactivation potential could be utilized to optimize fracturing operations in unconventional reservoirs (i.e., optimum well placement and timing) or aid with the design/assessment of caprock integrity.

Keywords:
Artificial Intelligence, hydraulic fracturing, Reservoir Characterization, Upstream Oil & Gas, reservoir geomechanics, Fracture Reactivation, stress state, geometry, fault reactivation, orientation
Subjects:
Hydraulic Fracturing, Reservoir Characterization, Reservoir geomechanics
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2013. American Rock Mechanics Association
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