Simulation of flow behaviour through fractured unconventional gas reservoirs considering the formation damage caused by water-based fracturing fluids

Abstract

Hydraulic fracturing is essential for commercial-scale gas production from many unconventional gas reservoirs. While the effectiveness of the fractures created is associated with the stress created during the fracturing process, the use of water in the hydraulic fracturing process has been found to significantly reduce fracturing efficiency. In particular, the formation damage caused by water imbibition may have a significant negative impact on the flow capacity through both created fractures and rock matrix. These effects can be minimised by using non-water based fracking fluid such as CO2. The intention of this study is to investigate the formation damage caused by water invasion and multi..