Rock physics-based integration of geologic and geophysical data for fracture characterization

摘要

Fracture characterization is of great practical importance in hydrocarbon recovery, but also in mine and well stability, earthquake studies, CO2 sequestration, and nuclear waste isolation. In particular, fracture characterization is important for hydrocarbon exploration and production, because significant amounts of hydrocarbons are trapped in tight reservoirs, where natural fractures are the main factors controlling fluid flow. The key requirement for efficient management of such reservoirs is the ability to locate fractures and to describe their parameters, such as fracture density, orientation, and type of fluid saturating the fractures.