Borehole Image Based Fracture Characterization

Abstract

The utilization of advanced methods of borehole image analysis; such as determining fracture trace length and fracture porosity, can allow for an enhanced understanding of the fracture network. Such an understanding is especially valuable in the characterization of unconventional reservoirs, in which natural fracturing can play a significant role in providing hydrocarbon storage and in influencing hydraulic fracture stimulation. Ultimately, it is considered that borehole image based fracture characterization could be used as an input to more accurately constrain DFN (Discrete Fracture Network) modeling and to therefore drive more representative stimulation modeling. This presentation provides examples of advanced methods of borehole image based fracture analysis and briefly discusses how this data might be applied to constrain more representative DFN models.

AAPG Datapages/Search and Discovery © 2014 Pacific Section AAPG, SPE and SEPM Joint Technical Conference, Bakersfield, California, April 27-30, 2014