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Mechanisms of formation damage in matrix permeability geothermal wells

Conference · · Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6405980
A laboratory study was conducted at simulated in-situ geothermal conditions to identify the mechanisms responsible for significant declines in permeability. Testing was conducted on core material retrieved from the East Mesa KGRA, (known geothermal resource area) Imperial Valley, California. In this paper, apparatus, procedures and results are described. Damage in this formation, which was not originally thought to be water sensitive, is attributed to cation exchange and the removal processes which alter the stability of the clay structures. Fluid shearing dislodges particles, which clog pore throats and irreversibly reduce permeability. The implications of these findings on operating procedures and production of the well can be significant and are discussed. 7 refs.
Research Organization:
Terra Tek Inc
OSTI ID:
6405980
Report Number(s):
CONF-811023-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States)
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English