Construction of a Numerical Model for Hydraulic Fracture Propagation in Multiple-Porosity Shale Petroleum Reservoirs

Shale reservoirs store gigantic volumes of petroleum (oil and gas). However, because of the complex nature of the reservoir rock, it is difficult to recover the oil and/or gas stored in shales. Under normal conditions, it is possible to extract only as much as 10% of the resources in place, thus leaving behind a huge potential that promises to satisfy the energy needs of Canada for several decades. The proposed research project aims to provide a scientific methodology whose practical application will allow increasing the recoveries from shales, i.e., getting more oil and/or gas out of the âdifficult to exploitâ reservoir. The project is therefore aligned with the interest of Canada for boosting its incipient shale gas industry.

Faculty Supervisor:

Roberto Aguilera

Student:

Daniel Orozco

Partner:

Nexen Energy ULC

Discipline:

Engineering - chemical / biological

Sector:

Oil and gas

University:

Program: