A New 3D Compositional Model for Hydraulic Fracturing With Energized Fluids

TitleA New 3D Compositional Model for Hydraulic Fracturing With Energized Fluids
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2013
AuthorsRibeiro, L. H., and M. M. Sharma
JournalSPE Production & Operations
VolumeVol. 28
Issue03
Start Page259
Pagination259-267
Date Published06/2013
ISSN1930-1855
Other NumbersSPE 159812-PA
KeywordsEnergized fracturing, Fracture modeling, Hydraulic Fracturing
Abstract

While several 3D fracturing models exist for incompressible water-based fluids, none are able to capture the thermal and com- positional effects that are important when using energized fluids such as CO2, N2, LPG, and foams. This paper introduces a new 3D, compositional, non-isothermal fracturing model. The new model predicts changes in temperature and fluid density. These changes are treated on a firm theoretical basis by using an energy- balance equation and an equation of state, both in the fracture and in the wellbore. The model is capable of handling any multicom- ponent mixture of fluids and chemicals. Changes in phase behav- ior with temperature, pressure, and composition can be modeled.

A new simulator has been developed based on the composi- tional model presented in this paper. The simulator is validated for traditional fluid formulations against known analytical solutions and against a well-established commercial fracturing simulator. Results from the new simulator are then presented for energized fluids such as CO2 and LPG. In particular, the compositional model shows how fluid expansion and viscosity reduction impact fracture growth. These effects are not captured by traditional frac- turing simulators. The compositional tool is specifically suited for fracture design in formations in which energized fluids constitute a viable alternative to traditional fracturing fluids.

DOI10.2118/159812-PA