Abstract:
The distribution of fractures influences the trajectory design of shale gas horizontal wells and the stimulation effectiveness of hydraulic fractures. Faults and joints serve as two types of fractures. Accordingly, this study proposed the seismic attribute-geomechanics integrated fracture modeling technology. Specifically, fault modeling is conducted using seismic attributes, and joint prediction is performed using geomechanical structural restoration and Mohr-Coulomb theory. The obtained results of faults and joints are then integrated into the discrete fracture network (DFN) modeling for spatial characterization of natural tectonic fractures. The proposed technology was applied to the exploration of Jurassic lacustrine shales in the Fuling area within the Sichuan Basin. Its fracture modeling results were consistent with the imaging log interpretation results, confirming the development zones and spatial distribution patterns of fractures. Moreover, the stimulation effectiveness of fracturing was evaluated by comparing the fracture modeling results of typical wells with the actual fracturing performance. The evaluation results indicate that tensile fractures that are vertical or oblique to well trajectories are favorable for fracturing. Overall, the results of this study hold positive implications for predicting fracture development zones and guiding horizontal well trajectory design in the exploration stage, serving as a reference for subsequent exploration deployment.