Abstract
We describe a new (or under-reported) type of deformation feature that has some of the textural characteristics of both a fracture and a shear band. The examples described occur in experimentally-deformed source-rock materials, and in tight limestones, both of which are constituents of many shale reservoirs. The deformation features, which emerge at very low magnitudes of bulk strain, create new dilative zones within the rock, and thus enhance the flow characteristics. Direct observation of fluid flow, involving neutron-tomography experiments of these experimental samples, reveals flow behaviours that lead to the inference that the features have an unusual set of properties: both high capillary pressure and high permeability. Detailed textural observations generate insights that lead to hypothesized physical explanations for the surprising flow characteristics. Our present understanding is that these features can form in the low-strain (and low energy-cost) conditions that can be achieved in hydraulic stimulation operations. If such deformations do occur in the suitable rock types within shale sequences, their role in fluid flow may be significant but heretofore unrecognized.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Proceedings of the 7th Unconventional Resources Technology Conference 2019 |
Publisher | URTEC |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 23 Jul 2019 |
Event | SPE/AAPG/SEG Unconventional Resources Technology Conference 2019 - Denver, United States Duration: 22 Jul 2019 → 24 Jul 2019 |
Conference
Conference | SPE/AAPG/SEG Unconventional Resources Technology Conference 2019 |
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Abbreviated title | URTC 2019 |
Country/Territory | United States |
City | Denver |
Period | 22/07/19 → 24/07/19 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment