The study's primary objective is to understand the flow mechanisms and influential parameters in the Vaca Muerta shale formation, which significantly affect long-term production performance in Argentina. This will be achieved through investigating stress's influence on matrix permeability and porosity using laboratory experiments and sensitivity analysis with reservoir simulation. Emphasizing accurate net stress measurements’ importance, the study specifically focuses on estimating pore volume compressibility in shales. Additionally, the research will evaluate how hysteresis impacts cyclic gas well opening and closing, considering seasonal demand patterns, and its implications for well productivity and drawdown-management strategies.
To understand the influence of stress on matrix permeability, matrix porosity, and hydraulic fracture conductivity, laboratory studies were conducted. In these studies rock samples were tested at different stress conditions and the resulting changes in permeability and porosity were measured.
Sensitivity analysis scenarios were run using reservoir simulation software to assess the impact of various parameters on the recovery factor and well performance. A numerical model of the reservoir was built and fluid flow and production behavior were modeled under different stress and parameter conditions.
Pore volume compressibility enhances recovery by acting as an additional drainage mechanism, particularly impactful for oil wells. The compaction of pore volume maintains reservoir pressure, preventing overestimation of original hydrocarbons during pressure build-ups. Stress-dependent properties significantly affect well productivity over its lifespan. Hysteresis notably influences productivity during opening and closing cycles, crucial for seasonally fluctuating wells. Drawdown-management profoundly impacts estimated ultimate recovery (EUR); an aggressive drawdown, accounting for reduced permeability due to stress, can lead to flow restriction near the fracture. These insights are vital for optimizing production and maximizing recovery in hydrocarbon reservoirs.
Understanding flow mechanisms is vital for effective reservoir management, optimizing production, and improving recovery in oil and gas wells. Accurate measurements of net stress impact and pore volume compressibility can improve understanding of well performance and avoid overestimate the original hydrocarbon in place. During seasonal demand fluctuations, knowledge of hysteresis effects on gas wells assists informed decision-making for well opening and closing cycles, ensuring stable and efficient production. Insights into drawdown-management and its impact on estimated ultimate recovery (EUR) guide operators in implementing appropriate strategies, preventing flow restrictions near the fracture, and optimizing EUR, leading to further reservoir performance enhancements.
