Hydraulic fracturing and the extraction of minerals through wells
Some theoretical, laboratory, and field studies aimed at improving the knowledge of hydraulic fracture orientation and initiating pressure are reported. Only vertical fractures are considered in detail, as they are the most abundant type encountered in the field. The fractures are theoretically assumed to be tensile ruptures extending in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the smaller horizontal principal compressive stress. It is found that the pressure required to initiate and extend vertical fractures depends on the principal tectonic stresses, the porous-elastic parameters of the rock and its tensile strength. Experimental work on simulated wells in laboratory rock samples under triaxial loading is described. Results confirm theoretical predictions of fracture type, fracture initiation pressure, and fracture orientation.
- Research Organization:
- Wisconsin Univ.
- OSTI ID:
- 7082891
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-690456-
- Journal Information:
- Symp. Salt, (Proc.); (United States), Journal Name: Symp. Salt, (Proc.); (United States) Vol. 2; ISSN SSAPD
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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