Enhanced Aqueous Fracturing Fluid Recovery from Tight Gas Formations: Foamed CO_2 Pre-pad Fracturing Fluid and More Effective Surfactant Systems

摘要

Underpressured, tight, deep formations represent a challenge in terms of recovery of fracturing fluids. CO_2, N_2 and binary high quality foams are widely used in this type of reservoir due to their capacity to energize the fluid and improve total flowback volume and rate. Surfactants designed to reduce surface and interfacial tension are also a key element in the design of fluid systems to enhance recovery and reduce entrapment of fluid barriers within the formation. Enhanced fluid recovery improves overall completions economics due to less total treatment cost and less time required for flowing back fluids. The most important benefit is achieving a less damaged proppant pack, resulting in higher fracture conductivity. This document will discuss the application of CO_2 foamed fluids and surfactants to enhance fracturing fluid recovery and other techniques adopted by one operator in the Wild River Field to improve completion practices.