Integrated Evaluation of the Clean-Up Performance of Unconventional Gas Plays; Investigating the Impact of Desiccation

Abstract

This research is to study the effects of desiccation on unconventional gas-plays. This helps to provide solutions to the volume of flowback in tight and ultratight formations, and to thoroughly investigate the impact of these on flowback volume in these formations. A methodical study of the elements that impede fracture-fluid clean-up in unconventional formations can help enhance fracture treatments and calculate long term volumes of produced water and gas.

In this work, the impact of desiccation in unconventional gas formations on pre and post fracturing operations is investigated. The post-fracturing flow back and subsequent gas production of the desiccated shale formation are compared to those of the undesiccated shale formation. The effect of desiccation and shut-in duration on shut-in performance in removing water blockage is quantified in our model. While there are other factors besides desiccation that influence well response to shut-in treatment in the field, developing a fundamental understanding of the mechanisms of water blockage removal can be beneficial. It was concluded that desiccation is a critical factor in determining whether shut-in is beneficial in removing water blockage.