--> ABSTRACT: Three Dimensional Model of Basin Diagenesis and Mechanics; Prediction of Naturally Fractured Tight Gas-Bearing Sandstone Reservoirs, by Changxing Qin, Dorothy F. Payne, Alex Chang, John Comer, Faical Tounsi, Peter J. Ortoleva, Thomas E. Hoak, A. David Decker; #91020 (1995).

Datapages, Inc.Print this page

Three Dimensional Model of Basin Diagenesis and Mechanics; Prediction of Naturally Fractured Tight Gas-Bearing Sandstone Reservoirs

Changxing Qin, Dorothy F. Payne, Alex Chang, John Comer, Faical Tounsi, Peter J. Ortoleva, Thomas E. Hoak, A. David Decker

A three-dimensional model has been developed which couples incremental-stress rock rheology and basin deformation with hydrology, aqueous and mineral reactions, and generation and transport of natural gas. The objective of the model is to predict the location, extent, and quality of naturally fractured tight gas-bearing sandstone reservoirs. The fracture network characteristics are predicted by a subcritical fracture model that accounts for fracture nucleation, extension, and cement infilling with authigenic minerals.

For the three-dimensional simulator, input includes lithologic data, and sedimentation and subsidence-, thermal-, and horizontal and vertical basin deformation-histories. Output consists of the evolution through time of several basin characteristics in three-dimensions: change of porosity and permeability; development and healing of fractures; development of overpressure; and migration of aqueous fluid and gas.

The model is calibrated to the naturally fractured tight gas-bearing sandstone reservoir of the Piceance Basin in western Colorado. Simulation results are compared with basin scale observations, and in greater detail with observations made at the D.O.E. Multi-Well Experiment site. These simulations can be valuable in predicting likely areas of fracture network development and their spatial relationship to gas reserves.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91020©1995 AAPG Annual Convention, Houston, Texas, May 5-8, 1995