Induced hydraulic fractures or reactivated natural fractures? Modeling the response of natural fracture networks to stimulation treatments

S. C. Williams-Stroud, W. B. Barker, Kevin Smith

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Microseismicity induced by hydraulic fracture stimulation of a horizontal well was mapped with a near-surface buried array. Distinct linear trends of events were not parallel to the direction of fast shear wave polarization measured in the reservoir with a crossed-dipole anisotropy tool. Analysis of core from a nearby well revealed numerous calcite-filled fractures that did not induce shear wave polarization, but did significantly impact the failure behavior of the reservoir rock during the stimulation treatment. Hydraulic fracture simulation with DFN modeling and source mechanism analysis supports the interpretation of reactivated existing fractures rather than the formation of hydraulically-induced tensile fractures.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication46th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2012
Pages1315-1320
Number of pages6
StatePublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes
Event46th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2012 - Chicago, IL, United States
Duration: Jun 24 2012Jun 27 2012

Publication series

Name46th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2012
Volume2

Other

Other46th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2012
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityChicago, IL
Period6/24/126/27/12

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Induced hydraulic fractures or reactivated natural fractures? Modeling the response of natural fracture networks to stimulation treatments'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this