3D visualization of hydraulic fractures using micro-seismic monitoring: Methodology and application

Abstract

In this paper, a new 3D visualization technical method was developed for hydraulic fractures using micro-seismic monitoring. This technical method consists of four steps: i. interpret the geologic hydraulic fracture model based on seismic source location data from micro-seismic monitoring; ii. develop a hydraulic fracture indication model, relying on the 3D spatial freeze-frame of micro-seismic monitoring sources from hydraulic fracturing; iii. construct a hydraulic fracture density model using the intensity from the micro-seismic monitoring; and iv. implement a 3D visualization of the hydraulic fractures, relying on the spatial constraints of the density model, the hydraulic fracture indication model, and the properties of the hydraulic fractures. This proposed technical method was used to produce 3D visualizations of the hydraulic fractures in well X in the Jiao reservoir, China, and the 3D visualizations of the distribution, development, extent and cutting relationships of hydraulic fractures were successfully realized. The results show that this technical method can be used as a practical and reliable approach to characterize hydraulic fractures.