Abstract
A problem that many exploration and production companies face is how much impaired flowback and/or production brine can safely be reused on future completions; and what chemicals should be included in the fracturing fluid design to mitigate any concerns. The main focus will pertain to slickwater fluid designs.
The authors used geochemical modeling hardware/software in combination with cuttings and sequential flowback analyses to acquire a full understanding of the shale constituents and mineralogy that disbands in formation. One can also determine the efficacy of the scale, clay, and iron control chemistries associated with the fracturing fluid design with sequential flow back analyses. Friction flow loop and rheology data confirm the homogeneity of the fracturing chemistries chosen for the application.
The data obtained from the cuttings analyses and sequential flowback studies confirm a correlation between the shale geology and flowback characteristics. This information confirms proper scale control selection and loading which will allow for a scale free formation. Microbiocide efficacy studies performed throughout the project indicate the propensity for microbiological activity and the successfulness of mitigation strategies. Friction flow loop data confirms the compatibility of the fracturing fluid constituents and the efficacy of those chemistries in stressed water conditions.
Studying geochemical formulary and water quality to develop a database for both well production and water quality of the producing well is critical in understanding water reuse. This data will allow the operator to make better decisions concerning optimal fracturing fluid design for slickwater application and proper reuse of water on subsequent hydraulic fracturing.
