Formation Evaluation and Characterization of Carlile Shale Based on Reservoir and Completion Quality Flags

Abstract

Summary In this study, we conducted an analysis of reservoir quality and completion quality indicators for Carlile Shale using data from a well at Teapot Dome, Wyoming, to determine its suitability for production simulation. The method was based on creation of reservoir quality (RQ) and completion quality (CQ) flags over the interval of the shale body to establish minimum cut-offs as an unconventional resource. Intervals in which both flags equal 1 will give a value of 1for the product of RQ and CQ known as RQC (reservoir quality and completion). Results from this example showed that the average shale thickness is approximately 240 ft., and the shale volume fraction is between 0.40 and 0.80. The quantity of shale hydrocarbon potential is indicated by the average TOC value of 0.08 w/w. Based on reservoir and completion quality assessment using the binary RQ and CQ flags, the Carlile Shale in this part of Teapot Dome was found to have good RQ in the upper section of the shale body, but the CQ was generally poor. This result suggested that the potential for an economic success during hydraulic fracturing is negligible.