Comparison of Fracture Analysis Methods at Multiple Scales from Outcrop Analogues
Good analogues for calibration of reservoir models should contain representative fracture properties across a wide range of scales. Capturing fracture data across multiple scales requires a range of different methods and appropriate technologies. In this study we illustrate a number of these methods, through field examples, comparing their advantages and disadvantages, and show how they…
Read MoreFrom outcrop analogue to full-field fracture model: the importance of multi-scale fracture size-intensity relationships
We present new datasets from fractured carbonates measured across multiple scales, acquired using a combination of different methods, from surface outcrops of Cenozoic and Mesozoic reservoir units from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. We use these data to illustrate the importance of characterising the scaling relationship of fracture size vs. fracture intensity, in order to…
Read MoreIntegrated imaging of fracture systems from surface outcrop and geophysical data
A thorough understanding of the fracture systems associated with reservoir structures is crucial to the effective hydrocarbon field production. Extensive surface mapping by geologists affords detailed and reliable understanding of the near-surface structures, however the depth to which this understanding can typically be applied is very shallow. Seismic and other geophysical techniques provide considerable, yet…
Read MoreRobust best-fit planes from geospatial data
Total least squares regression is a reliable and efficient way to analyze the geometry of a bestfit plane through georeferenced data points. The suitability of the input data, and the goodness of fit of the data points to the best-fit plane are considered in terms of their dimensionality, and they are quantified using two parameters…
Read MoreNatural seismogenic pumping processes in near surface fractured basement gneisses
The fluid transport and storage properties of fractured crystalline rocks are relevant to understanding water and hydrocarbon resources and potential containment of radioactive materials and carbon dioxide. Crystalline lithologies have virtually non-existent primary porosity therefore any porosity and permeability is secondary, originating from fractures and/or surface weathering. Here, we report upon a study on the…
Read MoreLIDAR Technology application for outcrop to subsurface reservoir study of Oman Interior
The Amin sandstone is a primary reservoir target of the Haima Supergroup (Vendian -Cambrian) for a Tight Gas Play for the Non-Associated Gas exploration in the Fahud Salt Basin, onshore Oman. Recent development in Tight Gas exploration in Oman have focused on possible fractured reservoirs of the Haima Supergroup. However, uncertainty remains in mapping and…
Read MoreFracture Characterisation in Shales for Efficient Development
In unconventional hydrocarbon plays, shales can act as a seal, source rock and reservoir. Characterising the geometry and kinematics of natural fracture systems within shales is a critical step in understanding reservoir geomechanics, optimising well plans, and predicting induced seismicity. Efficiency of fluid injection to induce hydraulic fracturing in a low permeability unit is enhanced…
Read MoreImproved Multi-Scale Fracture Models based on Quantitative Analysis of Outcrop Analogues
Characterisation of fracture systems from surface exposures provides critical constraints when developing a Conceptual Fracture Model. Analysing naturally fractured outcrops using a combination of traditional field methods and new geospatial technologies provides robust fracture data at multiple scales, and allows the likely range of values for fracture parameters to be quantified. Key technologies include terrestrial…
Read MoreStructural evolution of the Jebel Hafeet Anticline (Al Ain, UAE): A multi-scale approach to model fracture patterns and kinematic fold evolution
Conceptual, physical and numerical models have attempted to predict the fracture patterns from various fold shapes and kinematics, but so far these models remain poorly predictive in terms of spatial and temporal distribution of fractures. These models are crucial for reservoir characterization studies. Therefore, more detailed field-based data are required to better constrain 3D models…
Read MoreHow can fracture studies of outcrop analogues inform geomechanics?
Datatypes from the sub-surface are often fundamentally limited, either because they are extremely sparse (e.g. borehole image logs, core, well tests), or too low resolution (e.g. seismic), and hence unable to image the vast majority of fractures that constitute most naturally fractured reservoirs. Quantitative analysis of fracture systems in outcrop can provide critical constraint on…
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