A Three Dimensional Compositional Model for Hydraulic Fracturing with Energized Fluids

TitleA Three Dimensional Compositional Model for Hydraulic Fracturing with Energized Fluids
Publication TypeConference Paper
Year of Publication2013
AuthorsRibeiro, L. H., and M. M. Sharma
Conference Name47th US Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium
Date Published06/2013
PublisherAmerican Rock Mechanics Association
Conference LocationSan Francisco, California, U.S.A., June 23-26, 2013
ISBN Number978-0-9894844-0-4
Other NumbersARMA 1 3 - 409
Abstract

 While several three-dimensional (3-D) fracturing models exist for incompressible water-based fluids, none are able to capture the thermal and compositional effects that are important when using energized fluids such as CO2, N2, LPG, and foams. This paper introduces a new 3-D, compositional, non-isothermal, fracturing model designed for compressible fracturing fluids. The model predicts changes in fluid temperature, density, and composition. The model is capable of handling any multi-component mixture of fluids and chemicals. 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. The simulator constitutes a new tool to quantify the potential benefits introduced by energizing the fracturing fluid, which is critical when selecting fracturing fluid candidates.