Development and Field Application of a Low-pH, Efficient Fracturing Fluid for Tight Gas Fields in the Greater Green River Basin, Wyoming

Abstract

Summary Hydraulic fracturing has proved to be one of the best technologies to improve productivity from tight gas wells. In such low-permeability reservoirs, careful consideration must be given to fracturing fluid selection. Some reservoirs are underpressured and require the use of energized fluids, while others are sensitive to water-based fluids because of clay swelling and migration. Proppant pack damage because of gel residue is one of the primary causes of low production rates after hydraulic fracturing treatments. To minimize the damage and maximize production, a new premium, highly efficient fracturing fluid was developed. This premium system incorporates low-polymer-loading carboxymethyl guar polymer and a zirconium-based crosslinker. An adjustable crosslink delay makes the fluid ideal for deep-well fracturing and coiled-tubing treatment as frictional pressure losses can be minimized. The system can be energized or foamed with carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen (N2) or may also be used in binary foam systems. This paper will provide details on the new fracturing fluid system, in terms of proppant pack cleanup, rheological properties, and fluid loss, as well as other parameters. Various rheological evaluations using high-pressure, high-temperature rheometers as well as a foam loop, fluid leakoff testing, proppant pack conductivity, and regain permeability evaluations are presented. Field case histories will evaluate fracturing treatments using new fracturing fluid and comparable treatments using conventional fluid. Normalized production data of the treated wells of both systems are also compared.