Simulation of Production Dynamics after Reservoir Stimulation in Hydrate Reservoirs Considering Complex Fracture Morphology

Hydraulic fracturing is one of the feasible methods for the stimulation of gas hydrate reservoirs. Given the complexity of gas hydrate-bearing sediments in actual reservoirs, hydraulic fractures may exhibit irregular shapes. Consequently, it is necessary to investigate the impact of complex fractures on gas production enhancement during hydrate fracturing. In this study, the embedded discrete fracture model is used to construct fractures, and based on the numerical simulation of coupled hydrate reservoir development, the impacts of various types of possible complex morphology fractures on production dynamics in vertical and horizontal wells are investigated. The results indicate that the main fracture connected to the wellbore is the key factor influencing production in vertical well hydraulic fracturing. Secondary steering of the primary fracture can increase reservoir stimulation volume and increase production to a certain extent. Multiple fractures connected to the wellbore are most favorable for enhancing the effectiveness of the depressurization method, promoting the expansion of the low-temperature and low-pressure zone.

Automated summary

The impact of complex fractures on gas production enhancement during hydrate fracturing is investigated using the embedded discrete fracture model and numerical simulation. The main fracture connected to the wellbore is found to be the key factor influencing production in vertical well hydraulic fracturing. Secondary steering of the primary fracture and multiple fractures connected to the wellbore are also favorable for enhancing production.