Publication Date:
2009-11-01
Description:
Fracture prediction in subsurface reservoirs is critical for exploration through exploitation of hydrocarbons. Methods of predicting fractures commonly neglect to include the stratigraphic architecture as part of the prediction or characterization process. This omission is a critical mistake. We have documented a complex heterogeneous fracture development within the eolian Tensleep Sandstone in Wyoming, which arguably is one of the least complex reservoir facies. Fractures develop at four scales of observation: lamina-bound, facies-bound, sequence-bound, and throughgoing fractures that span the formation. We documented a detailed facies and fracture-intensity model using LIDAR-scanned outcrops located at the Alcova anticline in central Wyoming. Through this characterization, we reveal the existence of a striking variability in fracture intensity caused by original depositional architecture, overall structural deformation, and diagenetic alteration of the host rock. Chris Zahm is a research associate at the Bureau of Economic Geology within the Reservoir Characterization Research Laboratory (RCRL) Industrial Associates program. He received his B.S. degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1993, M.S. degree from the University of Texas at Austin in 1998 and Ph.D. from the Colorado School of Mines in 2002. His research interests are fractured reservoir characterization, including integration of stratigraphy as a fundamental control on fracture development in outcrop analogs and subsurface reservoirs. Peter Hennings received his B.S. and M.S. degrees in geology from Texas A&M University and his Ph.D. in geology from the University of Texas. He has held various technical and supervisory positions in Mobil Research Company, Phillips Petroleum Company, and ConocoPhillips. His research and application focus in these positions includes structure and tectonics, seismic interpretation, reservoir description, geomechanics, and fracture characterization. He is currently the manager of the Structure and Geomechanics Group in ConocoPhillips Subsurface Technology. He is an AAPG distinguished lecturer, a GSA honorary fellow, and is an adjunct professor at the University of Wyoming.
Print ISSN:
0149-1423
Electronic ISSN:
1943-2674
Topics:
Geosciences
Permalink