Method for Visualizing Fractures Induced by Laboratory-Based Hydraulic Fracturing and Its Application to Shale Samples

A better understanding of the process of stimulation by hydraulic fracturing in shale gas and oil reservoirs is necessary for improving resource productivity. However, direct observation of hydraulically stimulated regions including induced fractures has been difficult. In the present study, we deve...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Energies (Basel) 2018-08, Vol.11 (8), p.1976
Main Authors: Chen, Youqing, Naoi, Makoto, Tomonaga, Yuto, Akai, Takashi, Tanaka, Hiroyuki, Takagi, Sunao, Ishida, Tsuyoshi
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Design optimization
Fluorescence
fracture pattern
Fractures
Hydraulic fracturing
Laboratories
laboratory test
Minerals
Oil reservoirs
polarization microscope observation
Resource development
Shale
Shale gas
Stimulation
Thermosetting resins
Ultraviolet radiation
visualization
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Summary:A better understanding of the process of stimulation by hydraulic fracturing in shale gas and oil reservoirs is necessary for improving resource productivity. However, direct observation of hydraulically stimulated regions including induced fractures has been difficult. In the present study, we develop a new approach for directly visualizing regions of shale specimens impregnated by fluid during hydraulic fracturing. The proposed laboratory method uses a thermosetting resin mixed with a fluorescent substance as a fracturing fluid. After fracturing, the resin is fixed within the specimens by heating, and the cut sections are then observed under ultraviolet light. Based on brightness, we can then distinguish induced fractures and their surrounding regions impregnated by the fluid from other regions not reached by the fluid. Polarization microscope observation clearly reveals the detailed structures of tortuous or branched fractures on the micron scale and interactions between fractures and constituent minerals. The proposed experimental and observation method is useful for understanding the process of stimulation by hydraulic fracturing and its relationship with microscopic rock characteristics, which is important for fracturing design optimization in shale gas and oil resource development.
ISSN:1996-1073
1996-1073
DOI:10.3390/en11081976