13CSER022 - Numerical modeling and validation of fracture network formation in anisentropic media
| Project number | 13CSER022 |
| Project title | Numerical modeling and validation of fracture network formation in anisentropic media |
| Applicant(s) | Prof.dr.ir. D.M.J. Smeulders, Dr. A. Barnhoorn, Dr.ir. J.J.C. Remmers |
| Abstract | Fractures in rocks are important pathways for fluid flow in the subsurface and as such have a large effect on the productivity of hydrocarbon reservoirs. This is especially the case for lowpermeability reservoirs in which growth of fractures is needed for economically viable hydrocarbon production. Studying the growth and connectivity of fracture networks can help us better predict productivity of these fractured low-permeability reservoirs. Most fracture propagation studies model fracture growth in homogenous media, yet nature by default is very anisotropic and heterogeneous. In this study, we will determine the effect of anisotropy (e.g. layering) present in rocks on fracture propagation and fracture network formation using novel finite-element modeling (X-FEM) methods based on the partition-ofunity method. The numerical results from TUEindhoven on fracture propagation and network formation will be validated with a one-on-one comparison with rock fracturing experiments from TUDelft. |
| Project budget | k€ 276 (includes 1 PhD student and material budget) |
| Duration | 2014 - 2018 |