Understanding naturally fractured reservoirs Academic Article uri icon

abstract

  • A recently held Applied Technology Workshop (ATW), the "Naturally Fractured Reservoirs", explored reservoir characterization, fracture-network modeling and reservoir simulation, and experience with improved-oil-recovery (IOR) and enhanced-oil-recovery (EOR) processes in naturally fractured reservoirs (NFRs). The ATW featured four sessions which included more than 20 presentations. The four main sessions were: NFR characterization, constructing NFR geologic and flow models, predicting NFR performance, and improved and enhanced oil and gas recovery in NFRs. The first session covered the cause and effect of heterogeneity, the difference between fractures in limestones and sandstones, the seismically driven fractured reservoir characterization, and the key operational strategies used in redevelopment of the mature cretaceous NFR in La Concepcion field. The second session outlined permeability estimation, the role of outcrop analogs, integration of conventional, image, and production logs, and discrete fracture-network models. The third session introduced a fracture network modeling and reservoir simulation, a formula for optimum oil recovery in a fractured-basalt heavy-oil reservoir, early diagnosis of natural-fracture contribution to permeability at field-appraisal stage, and the determination and sensitivity of fracture characterization parameter for history matching. The fourth session covered enhanced gravity drainage through immiscible CO2 injection, dilute-surfactant-aided gravity drainage, wettability alteration in carbonate formations with surfactants, and an experience with IOR and EOR processes.

published proceedings

  • JPT, Journal of Petroleum Technology

author list (cited authors)

  • Blasingame, T.

complete list of authors

  • Blasingame, T

publication date

  • January 2006