Numerical simulation of hydraulic fracture height using cohesive zone method

Abstract Hydraulic fracturing is a popular method used in the petroleum industry to increase well performance by improving permeability of reservoir. However, while there has been extensive research on development length fracture, fractured height frequently assumed be equal reservoir thickness. The objective this paper study influence formation rock characteristics and impact underground stress state fracture height. To achieve objective, finite element model was built using cohesive zone predict time space. Different scenarios were then effectuated varying values primary variables which are Young’s modulus, porosity, Poisson ratio, energy, maximum horizontal beddings. This therefore covered principally uncontrolled factors properties underground, contribute mostly erroneous prediction findings revealed that strongly influenced adjacent layers. levels not same for different kinds properties. showed most influential mechanical property modulus. Regarding its effect extremely small. it worth noting porosity still an important parameter hydraulic because can estimate others parameters geometry width, length, Practical suggestions real-life jobs deduced from study, order control as accurately possible, decrease financial cost concentrating high instead doing all tests other less rock.