Optimizing unconventional gas extraction: The role of fracture roughness

Abstract

In unconventional reservoir engineering, such as coalbed methane and shale gas extraction, fracture behavior is pivotal in gas accumulation, migration, and extraction, acting as a primary channel for gas flow. Current research inadequately addresses the quantitative impact of fracture roughness on gas extraction. In this study, we introduce a novel interdisciplinary model that quantitatively characterizes shale fracture roughness and correlates it with shale permeability. This model comprehensively considers factors affecting shale extraction, including fracture roughness, in situ stress, reservoir deformation, and adsorption-desorption dynamics. It provides a thorough analysis of how fracture roughness influences gas seepage, extraction efficiency, and reservoir stability under various physical conditions. Our validated findings reveal that fracture roughness significantly affects shale permeability, stress responses, and displacement. As the fracture roughness coefficient χ increases from 0.2 to 1.0, the maximum reduction in gas pressure within the hydraulically fractured region is 4.7%, while the maximum increase in reservoir stress is 2.8%. In shale reservoirs near extraction well, particularly in hydraulically fractured zones, the maximum decrease in shale gas pressure is 11.1%, and the maximum increase in stress is 3.2%, which offer a groundbreaking approach for optimizing extraction rates and ensuring project safety in the industry.