Events

Speaker
Giovanni Grasselli, NSERC/Energi Simulation Industrial Research Chair in Fundamental Rock Physics and Rock Mechanics, University of Toronto

Presentation
Redefining Hydraulic Fracture Paradigms: Insights from Unconventional Oil and Gas Reservoirs

Abstract
Unconventional oil and gas play a key role in the energy transition as they provide a stable and relatively cleaner fuel sources amidst global energy supply challenges. In this work we specifically investigate the hydraulic fracturing processes in unconventional formations like marine layered silts, shales, and carbonates. The study is grounded on the principle that hydraulic fractures should align perpendicularly to the least stress axis. Utilizing a True Triaxial testing system, the research conducted laboratory tests on cores from the Montney play in Canada to replicate single stage, open-hole, hydraulic fracturing at in-situ stress strike-slip conditions equivalent to a depth of 2000 m. The tests produced high-resolution 3D images of the stimulated rock volume (SRV), revealing complex fracture networks that deviate from traditional theories by showing fractures oriented perpendicular to the second least principal stress rather than the least. These findings underscore the impact of rock fabric and layered anisotropy over local stress orientations in determining hydraulic fracture geometries, which has significant implications for understanding fluid pathways, frac hits, and potential geomechanical issues such as casing deformation and induced seismicity in hydraulic fracturing operations.

Bio
Professor Giovanni Grasselli serves as the NSERC/Energi Simulation Industrial Research Chair in Fundamental Rock Physics and Rock Mechanics at the University of Toronto. His expertise in geomechanics is recognized globally, notably through his work on shear strength of rock joints and his pioneering contributions the hybrid finite-discrete element method (FDEM). His academic excellence is underscored by his receipt of the International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) Rocha Medal in 2004, along with supervising two recipients of the same award in 2015 and 2017. Further, he was honored with the 2019 CGS John A. Franklin Award for his exceptional technical contributions and dedicated service to the geotechnical community in Canada. He was also instrumental in the founding of Geomechanica, a spin-off company from his research group, highlighting his commitment to applying academic research to industry challenges.

Location
CPE 2.204

Questions?
Rowan Halliday

About the Seminar
The Hildebrand Department’s Claude R. Hocott Lectureship in Petroleum Engineering is a weekly seminar series for current graduate students that features expert speakers on cutting-edge energy and subsurface engineering topics. For more information, contact Associate Professor Nicolas Espinoza.