Recent progress on proppant laboratory testing method: Characterisation, conductivity, transportation, and erosivity

Abstract

In hydraulic fracture, the choice of proppant is very crucial. It not only props the fractures in the formation but also maintains the fracture conductivity. Proppant technology is advancing rapidly with the advance in hydraulic fracture. Hence to ensure a more consistent proppant evaluation in the manufacturing of proppants, standardisation of proppant evaluation is imperative. The ISO and API have published several recommended practices for this purpose, but they are still lacking in many areas. This is because many theories underlying the performance of proppant have not been fully understood, such as the theory of proppant embedment and diagenesis, as well as their impact on proppant conductivity performance, which is the current focus of research in proppant studies. This is especially true with the high pace evolution of proppant technologies and thus requires updates from time to time. In addition to the recommended practices, different approaches had been explored in enhancing the way proppants are evaluated. This paper presents a short review of the modifications and improvements that have been proposed in the evaluation of proppant characteristics, conductivity, transportation, and erosion. The objectives of this review are to provide an overview of the current proppant testing practices, including the current standards’ limitation and challenges as well as modifications and improvements that have been proposed to laboratory-based testing, including the area that needs to be explored further.