Electrically Reactive Proppant Fracture Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating fracture geometry in subterranean formations are limited in accuracy and extent, particularly in measuring fracture dimensions away from the wellbore, and are often costly and invasive, with existing techniques providing little useful information for hydrocarbon production optimization.
Innovation Solution
The method involves injecting electrically reactive proppant coated with sulfides into fractures, which generates an electrical signal when exposed to brine, hydrocarbons, or drilling fluids, allowing for real-time monitoring and mapping using a grid of sensors that convert the signal into compatible data for conventional seismic recording systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional seismic survey equipment with geophones is used to detect fracture geometry, then the method is well-established and equipment is available, but the measurement precision and accuracy of fracture dimensions away from the wellbore is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (electrically conductive fluid or coating) applied to the proppant or fracture surface that mediates between the fracture geometry and the electromagnetic detection system. This intermediary enables the electromagnetic waves to interact with the fracture in a detectable manner, improving measurement precision without requiring complex seismic equipment modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical seismic survey system (geophones detecting ground movement) with an electromagnetic detection system. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical coupling and ground movement detection, allowing for more precise measurement of fracture dimensions through electromagnetic field interactions
2Reliability
If micro-seismic technique is used to monitor fractures during the fracturing process, then real-time monitoring is achieved, but the cost is prohibitively expensive and data accuracy is reduced due to high background noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection function from the noisy fracturing environment by using electromagnetic detection that operates independently of the mechanical fracturing process. The conductive fluid or coating on the proppant creates a distinct electromagnetic signature that can be detected separately from the background noise of the fracturing operation, improving reliability while reducing noise interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses electromagnetic field changes (analogous to color changes) as the conductive fluid or coating interacts with the electromagnetic waves. This provides a distinct detectable signal that stands out against the background noise, enabling reliable fracture monitoring without the interference problems of micro-seismic techniques
3Loss of information
If existing fracture detection methods are used, then some fracture location data is obtained, but the extent of useful information about fracture dimensions away from the wellbore is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a new dimension to fracture detection by using electromagnetic waves that can penetrate and map the three-dimensional geometry of fractures extending away from the wellbore. The conductive fluid or coating creates electromagnetic signatures at different depths and locations, providing comprehensive spatial information about fracture dimensions without complicating the evaluation process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional system where the conductive fluid or coating serves multiple purposes: it enhances proppant detectability, maps fracture geometry, and provides information about fracture orientation and extent. This universal approach reduces information loss while maintaining operational simplicity across different fracture evaluation needs
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 accurate, non-invasive, and extensive monitoring of fracture geometry, providing valuable data for optimizing hydrocarbon production by determining the shape, location, and volume of fractures, thus improving production efficiency and remediation strategies.
Implementation Method 1
electrically reactive proppant coated with sulfides into fractures, which generates an electrical signal when exposed to brine, hydrocarbons, or drilling fluids
Implementation Method 2
The signal produced as a result is sent to at least one sensors and subsequently sent to a data recorder for fracture mapping and monitoring purposes
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a method for evaluating and measuring the geometry of a fracture.