--> ABSTRACT: New Methods for Computing Three-Dimensional Fracture Network, by A. Lacazette and B. K. Baker; #91021 (2010)

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New Methods for Computing Three-Dimensional Fracture Network

LACAZETTE, ALFRED,  BRIAN KEVIN BAKER

This presentation will demonstrate Windows 95/NT software that uses new mathematical methods to compute representative (approx. or equal to average) properties and population characteristics (variability, clustering) of subsurface fracture populations from well data. These values are used to calibrate reservoir simulators and to correlate fracture properties with lithological, structural and other geological data. The methods also predict the number of fractures and fracture volume, permeability etc. that wells will intersect as a function of length and orientation. The computations are so rapid that drilling plans can be tested interactively by steering a virtual well with a joystick.

Although the methods are not mechanically based, geomechanical theory and experiments indicate that our computed results are theoretically valid. Limited testing with subsurface data empirically validates the approach. In principal, any fracture property can be evaluated including fracture orientation, spacing, aperture, permeability and flow.

Unlike traditional statistical methods that aggregate fracture properties and assume model population distributions, these methods assume nothing and work instead from the raw fracture data. Fracture properties (including abundance) are associated with the individual fractures that they represent. The approach obviates grouping of fractures into sets, which greatly reduces the need for geological data that is often unavailable. The methods hinge on a value termed occurrence, which can be thought of as the frequency of an individual fracture (fracture-frequency is the inverse of fracture-spacing).

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91021©1997 AAPG Annual Convention, Dallas, Texas.