Application of nanoparticles as fluid loss control additives for hydraulic fracturing of tight and ultra-tight hydrocarbon-bearing formations

摘要

Fluid loss into the matrix rock and micro-fractures is inevitable during a typical hydraulic fracturing job. This makes the application of a comparable fluid loss additive to reduce the filtrate volumes into microfractures of a shale formation necessary. Injection of polymeric solutions, either as slick water or cross-linked fluids, in order to propagate a fracture and distribute proppants and keep the fracture open is a common practice in hydraulic fracturing of unconventional tight and ultra-tight formations. In addition to propagation of a main fracture, polymeric fluids will be invading the already existing network of micro-fractures and extending the network connected to the main fracture.