Simplified geomechanical model of stresses on an orthorhombic media

摘要

In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a simplified geomechanical model that considers the anisotropic (e.g., directional) properties of a formation and the presence of natural fractures in the formation is provided. A system and method may be designed according to the present disclosure to create a simplified geomechanical model of a horizontally laminated formation that includes pre-existing natural fractures. The simplified geomechanical model can be used to calculate the fracture closure pressure of the formation and to design a fracturing operation for injecting fracture fluid into the formation, thus improving the efficiency of a subterranean operation. The disclosed model may provide a more realistic model for fractured shales than an isotropic or vertically transverse isotropic (VTI) model. In addition, the disclosed model may be simpler to implement than a full orthorhombic model.