Subterranean Fracture Mapping via Electrical Field Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current techniques for visualizing underground geometries, such as hydraulic fracture propagations, are limited in their ability to accurately map multiple dimensions and often require costly offset wells or environmentally damaging radioactive materials.
Innovation Solution
The method involves generating an electric field in a subterranean well bore using electrodes, detecting perturbations caused by objects with different electrical impedance, and using proppant with signal-generating devices to determine the dimensions of fractures, allowing for accurate mapping without the need for offset wells or radioactive materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If micro-seismic fracture mapping or tilt-meter fracture mapping is used, then fracture geometry information can be obtained, but the measurement precision is limited and only one dimension can be represented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical mapping systems (micro-seismic, tilt-meter) with an electrical field-based sensing system. Electrical field generating electrodes create a field that interacts with the conductive fracture fluid, and sensing electrodes detect the resulting potential changes, providing more precise multi-dimensional fracture geometry data without the limitations of mechanical methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from mechanical displacement or seismic wave propagation to electrical potential detection. By measuring electrical potential changes caused by the interaction between the generated electrical field and conductive fracture fluid, the system achieves higher precision in mapping fracture geometry across multiple dimensions
2Measurement precision
If offset wells are used for fracture mapping, then comprehensive fracture geometry data can be obtained, but the device complexity and cost increase dramatically
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the well bore electrodes serve multiple functions: they generate the electrical field, sense the resulting potential changes, and provide the measurement platform. This eliminates the need for separate offset wells and complex external mapping systems, achieving comprehensive fracture geometry data using only the existing well bore infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The well bore itself serves as the measurement platform, with electrodes that both generate the electrical field and detect the responses. The system uses the existing well infrastructure to map fractures in surrounding formations without requiring additional wells or external equipment, making the system self-sufficient and cost-effective
3Measurement precision
If radioactive tracers are used for fracture mapping, then fracture location and dimensions can be determined, but environmental harm increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the naturally conductive property of fracture fluids (which can conduct electrical current) into a beneficial sensing mechanism. By generating an electrical field that interacts with the conductive fluid, the system creates measurable potential changes that reveal fracture geometry, transforming what could be considered an unwanted electrical property into the core measurement mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces radioactive tracer methods with an electrical field-based detection system. Instead of using harmful radioactive materials to trace fracture paths, the system uses electrical fields that interact with the conductive fracture fluid, providing the same location and dimension information without environmental contamination
4Ease of operation
If conventional electrical field sensing is used, then electrical impedance differences can be detected, but the measurement precision for multi-dimensional fracture mapping is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process into distinct functional components: electrical field generating electrodes at specific locations, sensing electrodes at different positions, and systematic data processing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve high-precision multi-dimensional fracture mapping through coordinated electrical potential measurements
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 enables precise estimation of fracture dimensions, improving the effectiveness of hydraulic fracturing and hydrocarbon production by providing detailed geometry data without the drawbacks of existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
generating an electric field in a subterranean well bore using electrodes
Implementation Method 2
detecting perturbations caused by objects with different electrical impedance
Data Source
AI summary
A method of approximating or determining at least one dimension or other characteristic of at least one underground geological feature in a zone of interest proximate to a well bore includes generating an electric field in the zone of interest. At least two sensing electrodes are provided in the well bore and configured to detect differences therebetween in electric potential caused by at least one target object in the zone of interest. Proppant containing signal generating devices (SGD) is delivered into the geological feature(s). The SGD generate a detectable signal in response to at least one downhole condition or property. At least one receiver receives the detectable signals and provides data relating thereto. At least one dimension or other characteristic of the geological feature is approximated or determined based at least partially upon data provided by the sensing electrodes and receiver(s).