A Model for Fracturing Fluid Leakoff in High Permeability Formations

by
Jinhou Liang, MSE

University of Texas at Austin, 1997
Supervisor: Mukul M. Sharma

Hydraulic fracturing techniques have been used to increase oil production in high permeability areas for almost two decades. One important problem in hydraulic fracturing of oil reservoirs in such areas is fluid loss. Because fluid loss is determined by fracturing fluid properties, fracturing conditions and formation permeability, a good model is needed for predicting fluid loss behavior in hydraulic fracturing. However, existing fluid loss models are only valid when assuming low permeability formations. This thesis presents a new model for predicting fluid loss in hydraulic fracturing of high permeability formations. The model is based on the mass conservations equations and Darcy's law for Newtonian and non-Newtonian Fluids. The model accounts for the deposition of gel particles in the formation which results in the variation of the invaded-zone porosity and permeability with time and location. The derived equations for fluid loss are non-linear partial differential equations and are solved using the finite difference method. This thesis presents results obtained from the new model and shows how fluid loss is affected by fracturing fluid properties, formation permeability and fracturing conditions.

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