Technically recoverable Devonian shale gas in West Virginia
This report evaluates the natural gas potential of the Devonian Age shales of West Virginia. For this, the study: (1) compiles the latest geological and reservoir data to establish the gas in-place; (2) analyzes and models the dominant gas production mechanisms; and (3) examines alternative well stimulation and production strategies for most efficiently recovering the in-place gas. The major findings of the study include the following: (1) The technically recoverable gas from Devonian shale (Huron, Rhinestreet, and Marcellus intervals) in West Virginia is estimated to range from 11 to 44 trillion cubic feet. (2) The Devonian shales in this state entail great geological diversity; the highly fractured, permeable shales in the southwest respond well to traditional development practices while the deep, tight shales in the eastern and northern parts of the state will require new, larger scale well stimulation technology. (3) Beyond the currently developed Huron and Rhinestreet shale intervals, the Marcellus shale offers a third attractive gas zone, particularly in the north central portion of the state. 21 references, 53 figures, 27 tables.
- Research Organization:
- Lewin and Associates, Inc., Washington, DC (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC21-82MC19239
- OSTI ID:
- 6031023
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/MC/19239-1750; ON: DE85003367
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Technically recoverable Devonian shale gas in Ohio
Analysis of Devonian shale stratigraphic, production, and completion data in West Virginia. Annual report, 1 July 1986-30 June 1987
Related Subjects
030200* -- Natural Gas-- Reserves
Geology
& Exploration
BITUMINOUS MATERIALS
BLACK SHALES
CARBONACEOUS MATERIALS
CHATTANOOGA FORMATION
DATA
DEVONIAN PERIOD
ENERGY SOURCES
FEDERAL REGION III
FOSSIL FUELS
FUELS
GEOLOGIC AGES
GEOLOGIC DEPOSITS
GEOLOGIC FORMATIONS
GEOLOGY
INFORMATION
MATERIALS
MINERAL RESOURCES
NATURAL GAS DEPOSITS
NORTH AMERICA
NUMERICAL DATA
OIL SHALES
PALEOZOIC ERA
RESOURCE ASSESSMENT
RESOURCE POTENTIAL
RESOURCES
USA
WEST VIRGINIA