Laboratory investigation on the effect of in-situ stresses on hydraulic fracture containment

Journal Article · Tue Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1982 · SPEJ, Soc. Pet. Eng. J.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2118/9834-PA· OSTI ID:7016832

Warpinski, N R; Clark, J A; Schmidt, R A; Huddle, C W

Laboratory experiments have been conducted to determine the effect of in-situ stress variations on hydraulic fracture containment. Fractures were initiated in layered rock samples with prescribed stress variations, and fracture growth characteristics were determined as a function of stress levels. Stress contrasts of 300 to 400 psi (2 to 3 MPa) were found sufficient to restrict fracture growth in laboratory samples of Nevada tuff and Tennessee and Nugget sandstones. Tests conducted at bimaterial interfaces between Nugget and Tennessee sandstones show that the resultant stresses set up near the interface because of the applied overburden stress affect the fracture behavior in the same way as the applied confining stresses. These results provide a guideline for determining the in-situ stress contrast necessary to contain a fracture in a field treatment. 13 refs.

• Research Organization: Sandia Natl Lab, USA
• OSTI ID: 7016832
• 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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