An Overview of Formation Damage and Well Productivity in Oilfield Operations: An Update

Abstract

ABSTRACT Almost every field operation is a potential source of damage to well productivity. This paper provides a broad overview of the nature of formation damage problems, how they occur during various oilfield operations, and their effects on well productivity. Diagnosis of numerous formation damage problems has led to the conclusion that formation damage is usually associated with either the movement and bridging of fine solids or chemical reactions and thermodynamic considerations. The fine solids may be introduced from well bore fluids or generated in situ by the interaction of invading fluids with rock minerals or formation fluids. Control of formation damage requires proper design of treating fluids for chemical compatibility and strict quality control of fluid physical and chemical properties during treatment. The use of treating fluid filtration, clean work strings (pipe), and inhibited fluids has been shown to be important in the control of formation damage during well treatment.