New Resin Technology Improves Proppant Flowback Control in HP/HT Environments

Abstract

Abstract This paper will focus on a new resin technology that improves proppant flowback control under extreme conditions. The combination of dual phase flow and pressure drops in high rate gas wells has made proppant flowback a significant problem. These conditions must be addressed to maximize well productivity and minimize production costs. Moreover, the problems associated with cyclic stress effects can further hamper well production and tax any technology controlling proppant flowback. The most commonly applied proppant flowback control technology is the use of curable resin coated proppant (CRCP) either entirely or as a tail-in for hydraulic fracturing treatments. CRCPs have an established history in the consolidation of proppant packs under defined conditions of time, temperature, and closure stress. Improvements in CRCP performance have been facilitated by use of a new resin system through chemical and process changes. These changes have enhanced resin bond strength (RBS) characteristics commonly measured as unconfined compressive strength (UCS). Data shows RBS is anything but the dominant trait in preventing proppant flowback. This is most evident when the proppant pack is subjected to a large pressure drop, Non-Darcy multi-phase flow, temperature, and cyclic stress. Further associated effects are prolonged pumping time and elevated temperature exposure during CRCP placement. The CRCP placed under these conditions is subjected to elevated temperatures while the proppant is transported into the fracture and before fracture closure. CRCP performance testing in the laboratory can accurately depict these effects. A new resin technology is presented that is specifically designed to withstand the aforementioned conditions. The performance benefits are documented by rigorous laboratory testing (under simulated downhole conditions) and case history data from stimulation treatments performed on deep, high flow rate gas wells.