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Hydraulic fracture geometry: fracture containment in layered formations

Journal Article · · SPEJ, Soc. Pet. Eng. J.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2118/9261-PA· OSTI ID:6751426

One of the main problems in hydraulic fracturing technology is the prediction of fracture height. In particular, the question of what constitutes a barrier to vertical fracture propagation is crucial to the success of field operations. An analysis of hydraulic fracture containment effects has been performed. The main conclusion is that in most cases the fracture will penetrate into the layers adjoining the pay zone, the depth of penetration being determined by the differences in stiffness and in horizontal in-situ stress between the pay zone and the adjoining layers. For the case of a stiffness contrast, an estimate of the penetration depth is given. 35 refs.

Research Organization:
K/Shell Explor en Prod Lab, Neth
OSTI ID:
6751426
Journal Information:
SPEJ, Soc. Pet. Eng. J.; (United States), Journal Name: SPEJ, Soc. Pet. Eng. J.; (United States) Vol. 22:3; ISSN SSPJD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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