Application of low temperature fracturing fluid system in oil reservoir – A breakthrough approach

Abstract

Fracturing fluid formulation is crucial for successful hydraulic fracturing, especially in low-temperature reservoirs. Low-temperature Indian reservoirs are fractured with borate-based fluids. Temperature, pH, shear history, and cross linker-polymer bond affect fracturing fluid stability. Optimization of breaker and cross linker is crucial for gel stability to carry proppant deep into the formation and smooth post-job flow from low-temperature reservoirs. Without a proper breaker, earlier fracturing operations used linear gel compositions, compromising flow return. These formulations restrict high-concentration proppant use. Many studies were conducted to optimize the breaker-complexes for smooth flow back in simulated reservoir conditions. These formulations feature an in-house developed breaker that works well for low-temperature reservoirs (near ambient to 55 °C). This paper covers newly created low temperature fracturing fluid formulations, lab studies and successful field implementations.