fax 01-972-952-9435. AbstractThe Aguada Pichana field is located in the center of the Neuquén Basin in the province of Neuquén, being at present, one of the main gas producers in Argentina. The completion programs of Aguada Pichana wells imply the stimulation of Middle Mulichinco Formation (primary target) through hydraulic fractures.Mulichinco Formation is 30 to 80 meters thick and has a variable permeability throughout the pay zone. The gas drainage from the best permeability zones causes a differential depletion in reservoir pore pressure, affecting by consequence the mechanical properties of the rock in its whole thickness. This petrophysical and mechanical behavior of the reservoir, added to the possibility of finding free water in the lowest part, makes it difficult to reach the best results by means of a unique fracture.Within the optimization process that is followed in the development of this field, the implementation of a strategy of selective stimulation, through the pumping of two hydraulic fractures directed to reach different challenges, provides the best option for obtaining better results. In order to stimulate the base of the zone, the first stage of fracture includes an aggressive design of high conductivity with the aggregate, in some cases, of Relative Permeability Modifier additive (RPM) in the frac fluid for water control. In the top of the zone, the second stage is characterized for being a fracture of greater length, diminishing the convection effects. This work summarizes the designs, operational planning and results of the new methodology of implemented hydraulic fractures.

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