3D model of fracture zones at Soultz-sous-Forets based on geological data, image logs, induced microseismicity and vertical seismic profiles

This study presents a new deterministic 3D model of the fracture zones observed in the granitic reservoir of the Soultz European geothermal project. The major fracture zones encountered around 6 wells (4550, EP51, GPK1, GPK2, GPK3 and GPK4) consist in 53 main structures that are located and characterized in terms of size and orientation: 39 fracture zones, 8 microseismic structures and 6 structures derived from vertical seismic profiles are represented in the 3D model using Discrete Fracture Network tools of the gOcad modelling platform (Paradigm (TM), Earth Decision (TM)). This work illustrates the complexity of 3D fracture zone correlation and interpretation in crystalline rock masses characterized at meter scale (borehole) and at the reservoir scale (kilometer) thanks to geophysical imaging techniques. (C) 2010 Academie des sciences. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.