Calibrating the mechanical properties and in-situ stresses using acoustic radial profiles

Estimating the in-situ stresses and geomechanical properties in the exploration phase is key to the success of drilling, completion, and production operations. A methodology for building a Mechanical Earth Model (MEM) along a well trajectory based on logs and drilling data is presented. The constructed MEM uses the acoustic radial profiles obtained from a multi-pole sonic tool. The variation in the velocity of polarized shear waves as functions of the distance from the borehole are used to provide estimates of the magnitude and orientation of the in-situ stress state as well as to calibrate the stresses obtained using other methods. Furthermore, a plane strain computational model accounting for rock deformation and plastic strain in the near-wellbore region resulting from the stress changes induced by drilling is used. This model allows us to provide calibrated estimates of the unconfined compressive strength of the sand bodies crossed by the well.