Controlled Fracturing in Formations Using Electrical Impulses
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for fracturing geologic formations, particularly in tight rock formations, are inefficient in creating controlled, multi-dimensional fracture patterns necessary for economic recovery of solids, liquids, and gases, often requiring significant water and being prone to unintended fracture growth.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of alternating current (AC) to precondition the formation by creating conductive channels, followed by high-voltage, high-current electrical impulses to generate controlled fractures, which can be tailored to create specific fracture patterns without the need for additional water, thus avoiding the limitations of hydraulic fracturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hydraulic fracturing methods are used to fracture tight rock formations, then fracture volume and permeability are improved, but water consumption increases and unintended fracture growth occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical hydraulic fracturing system with an electrical field-based system. High-voltage electrical pulses are applied through electrodes to induce dielectric breakdown and plasma formation in the rock formation, creating fractures through electrical and thermal effects rather than mechanical fluid pressure. This substitution eliminates the need for large volumes of water while achieving comparable or superior fracture creation in tight rock formations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter used for fracturing from mechanical pressure (hydraulic) to electrical energy density. By controlling voltage, current, and pulse duration parameters, the system can precisely control fracture initiation and propagation. The electrical parameters allow for targeted energy delivery to specific zones, creating controlled fracture patterns without the uncontrolled water pressure that causes unintended fracture growth.
2Productivity
If hydraulic fracturing is used to create controlled fracture patterns, then permeability is improved, but control over fracture growth and pattern precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using multiple electrodes positioned at specific locations and depths within the formation. Each electrode or electrode pair can be independently controlled to create fractures in specific zones. The electrical field is concentrated between adjacent electrodes, allowing precise control over where fractures initiate and propagate. This enables the creation of complex three-dimensional fracture patterns with high spatial precision, targeting specific permeability zones while avoiding sensitive areas.
3Productivity
If conventional fracturing methods are applied to tight formations, then some permeability improvement is achieved, but the ability to create multi-dimensional fracture patterns deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional two-dimensional fracture patterns (typically horizontal or vertical planes) to three-dimensional fracture networks. By positioning electrodes at multiple depths and orientations within boreholes, and by controlling the timing and sequencing of electrical pulse application between different electrode pairs, the system creates intersecting fracture planes that form a complex 3D network. This multi-dimensional approach significantly enhances permeability by providing multiple flow pathways through the tight rock formation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly enhances rock permeability, allowing for more efficient hydrocarbon recovery and mineral extraction by creating extensive, controlled fractures with increased conductivity ratios, reducing the risk of unwanted fracture growth and water management issues.
Implementation Method 1
applying a sufficient amount of energy comprising AC power to the electrodes to induce an electrical field between opposite electrode contact points to generate a least one conductive channel between a pair of electrodes
Implementation Method 2
The application of the electrical pulses generates plasma shock waves in the water thereby creating multiple controlled fractures within and about the conductive channel in the formation
Implementation Method 3
applying a sufficient amount of energy comprising AC power to a plurality of electrodes placed in a plurality of boreholes in the formation to heat the connate water in the formation to either a subcritical condition or supercritical condition
Implementation Method 4
The application of the electrical pulses generates multiple controlled fractures within and about the conductive channel by disintegration of minerals and pyrolysis of organic materials in the formation
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of generating controlled fractures in geologic formation are provided herein. In one embodiment, a method comprises preconditioning by applying a sufficient amount of energy comprising AC power to the electrodes to induce an electrical field between opposite electrode contact points to generate a least one conductive channel between a pair of electrodes. The generation of the conductive channel is complete when current flow measured by a network analyzer exhibits a measured reduction of channel resistance of 90% ohms or more in 6 hours or less from when preconditioning first began. The method further comprises, subsequent to generating the conductive channel, fracturing by applying electrical impulses to the electrodes. The application of the electrical pulses generates multiple controlled fractures within and about the conductive channel. The energy is applied using a single phase configuration, a multiphase configuration, or any combination thereof.