On the initiation, propagation and reorientation of simultaneously-induced multiple hydraulic fractures

On the initiation, propagation and reorientation of simultaneously-induced multiple hydraulic fractures

This study aims to uncover the growth characteristics of simultaneously-induced multiple hydraulic fractures using the discrete element method. We evaluate the influences of in-situ states and operational parameters on the fracture trajectories. Results reveal that reservoir heterogeneity magnifies...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Computers and geotechnics 2020-01, Vol.117, p.103226, Article 103226
Main Authors: Duan, Kang, Kwok, Chung Yee, Zhang, Qiangyong, Shang, Junlong
Format: Article
Language:eng
Subjects:
Anisotropy
Crack initiation
Discrete element method
Formation heterogeneity
Fracture mechanics
Heterogeneity
Hydraulic fracturing
Offsets
Simultaneous multiple fractures
Stress
Stress-shadowing effect
Viscosity
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Summary:This study aims to uncover the growth characteristics of simultaneously-induced multiple hydraulic fractures using the discrete element method. We evaluate the influences of in-situ states and operational parameters on the fracture trajectories. Results reveal that reservoir heterogeneity magnifies the stress-shadowing effect and causes severe interactions among fractures. Higher effective stress anisotropy offsets the stress-shadowing effect and force the fractures to propagate in the direction of maximum stress and results in relative long parallel fractures. Increasing the spacing can mitigate the stress-shadowing effect to some degree. Injection rate and fluid viscosity have a less significant influence on the interactions among fractures.
ISSN:0266-352X
1873-7633