Numerical study of the stimulation related thermo-hydro-mechanical processes in tight gas and deep geothermal reservoirs

Numerical study of the stimulation related thermo-hydro-mechanical processes in tight gas and deep geothermal reservoirs
Author: Wentao Feng
Publisher: Cuvillier Verlag
Total Pages: 204
Release: 2020-03-05
Genre: Technology & Engineering
ISBN: 3736961707

Hydraulic fracturing in combination with horizontal well is playing a key role in the efficient development of unconventional gas/oil reservoirs and deep geothermal resources. However, the integral operation, especially from the perspective of THM (Thermal-Hydraulic-Mechanic) interactions have not been studied systematically. In this thesis, targeted improvements were achieved through developing a series of mathematical/physical models, and their implementation into the existing numerical tools (FLAC3Dplus and TOUGH2MP-FLAC3D), including: (a) a new thermal module for FLAC3Dplus based entirely on the finite volume method (FVM), which is especially developed for the fracturing process and can also achieve the modeling of gel breaking; (b) a rock damage module of TOUGH2MP-FLAC3D, which also considers the impacts of rock damaging process on evolution of permeability; (c) an in-depth improved FLAC3Dplus simulator that obtains the ability to simulate a 3D fracture propagation with arbitrary orientation. After the corresponding verifications, the improved tools were applied in different case studies to reveal: a) influences of the fluid’s viscosity on the fracturing results in tight sandstone reservoirs; b) the induced seismicity during the fracturing operation and the reactivation of the natural faults; and c) the fracture propagation with arbitrary orientation.

Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical (THM) coupled simulations of innovative enhanced geothermal systems for heat and electricity production as well as energy storage

Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical (THM) coupled simulations of innovative enhanced geothermal systems for heat and electricity production as well as energy storage
Author: Muhammad Haris
Publisher: Cuvillier Verlag
Total Pages: 175
Release: 2022-08-05
Genre: Science
ISBN: 3736966601

Enhanced geothermal systems (EGSs) evolved from the hot dry rock can provide a significant amount of energy while shifting towards negligible carbon emission. In order to investigate some important issues related to EGS, several scenarios have been analyzed using powerful numerical tools (FLAC3Dplus and TOUGH2MP-TMVOC). While conducting multiple hydraulic fracturing, it is observed that the newly created successive fracture’s configuration highly depends on the previous one under the influence of stress shadow. Therefore, the assumption of using similar multiple fracture geometries and shapes for energy exploitation may lead to erroneous estimations. A case study has been performed further using the engineering data of the GeneSys project in the North German Basin. Numerous scenarios have been investigated, and the optimized EGS project is proposed, whose installed power capacity of one side of the injection well declines from 7.17 MW to 5.08 MW over 30 years. Moreover, the Levelized cost of electricity is calculated at 5.46 c$/kWh, which is quite economical compared to the current electricity price. Finally, an innovative concept of regenerative EGS is proposed by storing surplus renewable energy in multiple hydraulic fractures that can reduce the reservoir temperature reduction rate. The results of continuous injection/production cycles depicted that a regenerative EGS could be achieved in reality.

Coupled Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical Processes in Fractured Rock Masses

Coupled Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical Processes in Fractured Rock Masses
Author: Fengshou Zhang
Publisher: Springer Nature
Total Pages: 316
Release: 2023-09-11
Genre: Science
ISBN: 3031257871

The subject of thermo-hydro-mechanical coupled processes in fractured rock masses has close relevance to energy-related deep earth engineering activities, such as enhanced geothermal systems, geological disposal of radioactive waste, sequestration of CO2, long-term disposal of waste water and recovery of hydrocarbons from unconventional reservoirs. Despite great efforts by engineers and researchers, comprehensive understanding of the thermo-hydro-mechanical coupled processes in fractured rock mass remains a great challenge. The discrete element method (DEM), originally developed by Dr. Peter Cundall, has become widely used for the modeling of a rock mass, including its deformation, damage, fracturing and stability. DEM modeling of the coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical processes in fractured rock masses can provide some unique insights, to say the least, for better understanding of those complex issues. The authors of this book have participated in various projects involving DEM modeling of coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical processes during treatment of a rock mass by fluid injection and/or extraction and have provided consulting services to some of the largest oil-and-gas companies in the world. The breadth and depth of our engineering expertise are reflected by its successful applications in the major unconventional plays in the world, including Permian, Marcellus, Bakken, Eagle Ford, Horn River, Chicontepec, Sichuan, Ordos and many more. The unique combination of the state-of-the-art numerical modeling techniques with state-of-the-practice engineering applications makes the presented material relevant and valuable for engineering practice. We believe that it is beneficial to share the advances on this subject and promote some further development.

Numerical study of physico- chemical interactions for CO2 sequestration and geothermal energy utilization in the Ordos Basin, China

Numerical study of physico- chemical interactions for CO2 sequestration and geothermal energy utilization in the Ordos Basin, China
Author: Hejuan Liu
Publisher: Cuvillier Verlag
Total Pages: 285
Release: 2014-11-10
Genre: Science
ISBN: 3736948425

In this dissertation, three simulators (i.e. TOUGH2MP, TOUGHREACT and FLAC3D) were used to simulate the complex physical and chemical interactions induced by CO2 sequestration. The simulations were done instages, ranging from the two phase (water and CO2) fluid flow (H2), through coupled hydro-mechanical effects (H2M) and geochemical responses (i.e. CO2-water-rock interactions (H2C)), to the extension of CCS to CCUS by the application of combined geothermal production and CO2 sequestration technologies. The findings of this study are essential for a thorough understanding of the complex interactions in the multiphase, multicomponent porous media controlled by different physical and chemical mechanisms. Furthermore, the simulation results will provide an invaluable reference for field operations in CCS projects, especially for the full-integration pilot scale CCS project launched in the Ordos Basin. Subsequently, a preliminary site selection scheme for the combined geothermal production and CO2 sequestration was set up, which considered various factorsinvolved in site selection, ranging from safety, economical, environmental and technical issues. This work provides an important framework for the combined geothermal production and CO2 sequestration project. However, further numerical and field studies are still needed to improve on a series of criteria and related parameters necessary for a better understanding of the technology.

Petroleum Related Rock Mechanics

Petroleum Related Rock Mechanics
Author: Erling Fjær
Publisher: Elsevier
Total Pages: 515
Release: 2008-01-04
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0080557090

Engineers and geologists in the petroleum industry will find Petroleum Related Rock Mechanics, 2e, a powerful resource in providing a basis of rock mechanical knowledge - a knowledge which can greatly assist in the understanding of field behavior, design of test programs and the design of field operations. Not only does this text give an introduction to applications of rock mechanics within the petroleum industry, it has a strong focus on basics, drilling, production and reservoir engineering. Assessment of rock mechanical parameters is covered in depth, as is acoustic wave propagation in rocks, with possible link to 4D seismics as well as log interpretation. - Learn the basic principles behind rock mechanics from leading academic and industry experts - Quick reference and guide for engineers and geologists working in the field - Keep informed and up to date on all the latest methods and fundamental concepts

Science of Carbon Storage in Deep Saline Formations

Science of Carbon Storage in Deep Saline Formations
Author: Pania Newell
Publisher: Elsevier
Total Pages: 447
Release: 2018-09-06
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0128127538

Science of Carbon Storage in Deep Saline Formations: Process Coupling across Time and Spatial Scales summarizes state-of-the-art research, emphasizing how the coupling of physical and chemical processes as subsurface systems re-equilibrate during and after the injection of CO2. In addition, it addresses, in an easy-to-follow way, the lack of knowledge in understanding the coupled processes related to fluid flow, geomechanics and geochemistry over time and spatial scales. The book uniquely highlights process coupling and process interplay across time and spatial scales that are relevant to geological carbon storage. - Includes the underlying scientific research, as well as the risks associated with geological carbon storage - Covers the topic of geological carbon storage from various disciplines, addressing the multi-scale and multi-physics aspects of geological carbon storage - Organized by discipline for ease of navigation

Volcanic Unrest

Volcanic Unrest
Author: Joachim Gottsmann
Publisher: Springer
Total Pages: 313
Release: 2018-12-18
Genre: Nature
ISBN: 331958412X

This open access book summarizes the findings of the VUELCO project, a multi-disciplinary and cross-boundary research funded by the European Commission's 7th framework program. It comprises four broad topics: 1. The global significance of volcanic unrest 2. Geophysical and geochemical fingerprints of unrest and precursory activity 3. Magma dynamics leading to unrest phenomena 4. Bridging the gap between science and decision-making Volcanic unrest is a complex multi-hazard phenomenon. The fact that unrest may, or may not lead to an imminent eruption contributes significant uncertainty to short-term volcanic hazard and risk assessment. Although it is reasonable to assume that all eruptions are associated with precursory activity of some sort, the understanding of the causative links between subsurface processes, resulting unrest signals and imminent eruption is incomplete. When a volcano evolves from dormancy into a phase of unrest, important scientific, political and social questions need to be addressed. This book is aimed at graduate students, researchers of volcanic phenomena, professionals in volcanic hazard and risk assessment, observatory personnel, as well as emergency managers who wish to learn about the complex nature of volcanic unrest and how to utilize new findings to deal with unrest phenomena at scientific and emergency managing levels. This book is open access under a CC BY license.

Unconventional Reservoir Geomechanics

Unconventional Reservoir Geomechanics
Author: Mark D. Zoback
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Total Pages: 495
Release: 2019-05-16
Genre: Business & Economics
ISBN: 1107087074

A comprehensive overview of the key geologic, geomechanical and engineering principles that govern the development of unconventional oil and gas reservoirs. Covering hydrocarbon-bearing formations, horizontal drilling, reservoir seismology and environmental impacts, this is an invaluable resource for geologists, geophysicists and reservoir engineers.

Reservoir Stimulation

Reservoir Stimulation
Author: Michael J. Economides
Publisher:
Total Pages: 932
Release: 2000-06-23
Genre: Technology & Engineering
ISBN:

Sets forth a rationalisation of stimulation using reservoir engineering concepts, and addresses topics such as formation characterisation, hydraulic fracturing and matrix acidizing. Formation damage, which refers to a loss in reservoir productivity, is also examined comprehensively.

Discrete Fracture Network Modeling of Hydraulic Stimulation

Discrete Fracture Network Modeling of Hydraulic Stimulation
Author: Mark W. McClure
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
Total Pages: 96
Release: 2013-06-15
Genre: Technology & Engineering
ISBN: 3319003836

Discrete Fracture Network Modeling of Hydraulic Stimulation describes the development and testing of a model that couples fluid-flow, deformation, friction weakening, and permeability evolution in large, complex two-dimensional discrete fracture networks. The model can be used to explore the behavior of hydraulic stimulation in settings where matrix permeability is low and preexisting fractures play an important role, such as Enhanced Geothermal Systems and gas shale. Used also to describe pure shear stimulation, mixed-mechanism stimulation, or pure opening-mode stimulation. A variety of novel techniques to ensure efficiency and realistic model behavior are implemented, and tested. The simulation methodology can also be used as an efficient method for directly solving quasistatic fracture contact problems. Results show how stresses induced by fracture deformation during stimulation directly impact the mechanism of propagation and the resulting fracture network.