Improved Drainage of Sand Pack Enhances Fracturing Fluid Recovery and Increases Production

Abstract

ABSTRACT A technique for improving stimulation fluid recovery has been developed in the laboratory arid has proven effective in field applications. The method involves improving proppant pack drainage and minimizing capillary pressure in the formation through the judicious application of surface active agents. The technique is particularly applicable in low pressure oil wells and tight gas reservoirs, and may be used in all aqueous fracturing treatments. These include slick and gelled water, as well as foamed and crosslinked systems. The technique involves the use of a solvent in the pad fluids and a surfactant system throughout the entire fracturing treatment. This combination improves sand pack drainage and minimizes capillary water blocks in the invaded formation, while maintaining the water-wet condition of both the proppant pack and formation. The results of field applications using this technique have shown great improvement in the recovery of aqueous stimulation fluids in both sand and limestone formations. Increases in initial hydrocarbon production have also resulted. Case histories are presented from both oil and gas wells in a variety of formations.