A Critical Review on the Advancements in Exploration and Production of Shale Gas

Abstract

The exploration and production of shale gas have seen significant advancements in recent years, driven by the increasing global demand for clean energy sources. These advancements encompass the understanding of a wide range of areas, including the formation theory of shale gas reservoirs, evaluation methods, well drilling, completion, and simulation techniques. Innovative design, modelling, and field practices have been developed for shale gas well drilling and completion, as well as its production techniques. Furthermore, new simulation techniques, software, algorithms, and other tools have been introduced to improve the modelling and simulation of shale gas production. Experimental and simulation research in shale gas exploration, development, and production using hydraulic fracturing has also seen considerable progress. These advancements are contributing significantly to the global demand for clean energy sources with a promise to achieve sustainable development goals. This review work explores the exploration and exploitation of shale gas with a detailed description of multidisciplinary research efforts, providing valuable insights into shale reservoir/rock characterization and geo-mechanics, fluid-surface interactions, gas adsorption behaviours and single- and multi-phase flow mechanics. These advancements are not only increasing the efficiency and productivity of shale gas extraction but also paving the way to meet the future global energy demand while also contributing to the goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions. The novelty of the review work is that it exhibits a combined qualitative and quantitative study of recent advancements in the sphere of exploration and production of shale gas reserves and its discoveries around the globe.