Non-Convex Particle Diverter for Fracture Bridging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulic fracturing in tight/unconventional subsurface resources faces reduced efficiency due to heterogeneity in lithology and permeability variations, leading to suboptimal stimulation coverage and production, particularly because spherical particulates exhibit inefficient particle-to-particle interactions that hinder bridging and plugging.
Innovation Solution
The use of non-convex, three-dimensional cross particles with protrusions, potentially coated with adhesive polymers, that interlock to form a diverter plug within hydraulic fractures, diverting fracturing fluid to new areas and enhancing fracture plugging efficiency by bridging and blocking existing channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If spherical particulates are used as diverters, then the treatment can be performed with simple spherical particles, but the particle-to-particle interactions are inefficient and bridging/plugging efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by changing the particle shape from spherical to non-spherical forms including ellipsoidal, cylindrical, and irregular shapes. This asymmetric geometry creates more effective particle-to-particle contact points and interlocking mechanisms, thereby improving bridging and plugging efficiency while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through conventional shaping processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes curved surface geometry by employing ellipsoidal and cylindrical particles with specific aspect ratios. The curved surfaces provide better flow characteristics while creating effective mechanical interlocking when particles contact each other, enhancing plugging efficiency without requiring complex angular or faceted shapes that would be difficult to manufacture.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical plug is used to isolate different stages, then the well can be completed with cased hole completion and perforation, but the treatment efficiency is reduced due to heterogeneity in lithology and permeability variation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using diverters with specific geometric characteristics (aspect ratio, shape factors) that are optimized for local fracture conditions. The non-spherical particles provide directionally-dependent bridging behavior that adapts to varying lithology and permeability heterogeneity within different zones, allowing efficient treatment across heterogeneous reservoirs while maintaining standard completion methods.
3Productivity
If spherical particulates are used, then the particles can be easily pumped with fracturing fluid, but the stimulation coverage is suboptimal and area suitable for stimulation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric particle shapes including ellipsoidal and cylindrical forms that create more effective spatial distribution and coverage within fractures. The non-spherical geometry enables better particle packing and more extensive fracture network stimulation, increasing the total stimulated volume and reducing untreated zones compared to spherical particles.
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
The interlocking non-convex particles improve fracture plugging efficiency, increase stimulation coverage, and allow for targeted diversion of fracturing fluid to unstimulated zones, thereby enhancing oil recovery without damaging the reservoir.
Implementation Method 1
Each non-convex particle is formed to interlock with another non-convex particle. A diverter plug is formed in the first hydraulic fracture with two or more interlocking non-convex particles.
Implementation Method 2
an adhesive polymer is applied to a surface of one or more of the plurality of non-convex particles to enhance interlocking of two or more non-convex particles
Implementation Method 3
Flow of a second water-based fracturing fluid is diverted to a second location due to the diverter plug. A new set of hydraulic fractures is generated.
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for diverter fracturing, a water-based fracturing fluid including non-convex particles is introduced into a hydraulic fracture of a wellbore at a first location. Each non-convex particle is formed to interlock with another non-convex particle. A diverter plug is formed in the hydraulic fracture when multiple non-convex particles interlock. Flow of another water-based fracturing fluid is diverted to a second location due to the diverter plug, forming another hydraulic fracture at the second location.