A Novel Equivalent Continuum Approach for Modelling Hydraulic Fractures

Abstract

Hydraulic fracturing has transitioned into widespread use over the last few decades. There are a variety of numerical methods available to simulate hydraulic fracturing. However, most current methods require a large number of input parameters, of which the values of some parameters are poorly constrained. This paper proposes a new method of modelling the hydraulically fractured region using void-ratio dependent relation to define the permeability of the fractured region. This approach is computationally efficient and reduces the number of input parameters. By implementing this method with an equivalent continuum representation, uncertainties are reduced arising from heterogeneity and anisotropy of earth materials. The computational efficiency improves modelling performance in stress sensitive zones such as in the vicinity of the injection well or near faults.