A New Modeling Framework for Multi-Scale Simulation of Hydraulic Fracturing and Production from Unconventional Reservoirs

This paper describes a new modeling framework for microscopic to reservoir-scale simulations of hydraulic fracturing and production. The approach builds upon fusion two existing high-performance simulators behavior: the GEOS code hydromechanical evolution during stimulation TOUGH+ multi-phase flow are informed by experimental studies at laboratory scale incorporate important micro-scale mechanical processes chemical reactions occurring within fractures, shale matrix, fracture-fluid interfaces. These include, among others, changes in stimulated fracture permeability as result proppant behavior rearrangement or embedment, mineral precipitation pores microfractures, µm cm scales. In our framework, such testing provides upscaled parameters reservoir models. We currently using field data core samples from Hydraulic Fracturing Field Test (HFTS), recent field-based joint research experiment with intense monitoring production Wolfcamp Formation Permian Basin (USA). Below, we present coupling experiments modeling. provide brief overview HFTS available data, then discuss ongoing application workflow set.