Analysis of Natural and Induced Fractures in th...
SKU: GRI-92/0094
Analysis of Natural and Induced Fractures in the Barnett Shale, Mitchell Energy Corporation, T.P. Sims No. 2, Wise County, Texas
Characterization of the natural fracture system and the direction of present day maximum horizontal stress, performed to strategically plan a horizontal well in the Barnett Shale, is described. Core and borehole image logs indicate that the Barnett Shale in the Mitchell Energy, T.P. Sims No.2 well contains natural fractures.
Summary:
Characterization of the natural fracture system and the direction of present day maximum horizontal stress, performed to strategically plan a horizontal well in the Barnett Shale, is described. Core and borehole image logs indicate that the Barnett Shale in the Mitchell Energy, T.P. Sims No.2 well contains natural fractures. Fracture widths are typically 0.1 millimeter and appear to be filled with calcite mineralizations. However, partial mineralization on fracture surfaces and dark areas along fracture traces seen on the Formation MicroScanner (FMS) log indicate the presence of remnant apertures. The natural fractures have a mean strike of 114 degrees and dip 74 degrees to the southwest. Drilling-induced fractures measured on the FMS log have a mean strike of 54 degrees and dip 81 degrees to the northwest. Open-hole stress tests were also performed on the well. Five measurements of these very small hydraulic fractures have a mean strike of 60 degrees and dip 87 degrees to the northwest. These results apparently document a change in the stress field from the time the natural fractures formed to the present day.
