Modeling particle mobilization tn unconsolidated formations due to fluid injection

S. Ameen Rostami, Arash Dahi Taleghani

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

High injection rates in water injectors leads to mobilization of particles in unconsolidated formations and creates preferential flow paths within the porous medium. Channelization in porous medium occurs when fluid-induced stresses become locally larger than a critical threshold (rock stress); grains are then dislodged and carried away, hence porosity and permeability of the medium will be altered along the induced flow paths. Additionally, rapid shut-ins result in pressure imbalance between the wellbore and formation. Flowback of the particles results in sand accumulation, and consequently loss of injectivity, which is a common problem in unconsolidated formations like the ones in deep water Gulf of Mexico. Experimental studies have confirmed the presence of dependent and independent flow patterns; however, there is no integrated model to describe flow patterns and predict probable issues for water injection at the reservoir scale. The objective of this study is to provide a model for a channel initiation/propagation during injection and flowback in injection wells. A finite volume model is developed based on multiphase fraction volume concept that decomposes porosity into mobile and immobile phases where these phases change spatially and evolve over time that leads to development of erosional channels in radial patterns depending on injection rates, viscosity, magnitude of in situ stresses and rock properties. The model accounts for both particle releasing and suspension deposition. The developed model explains injectivity change with injection rates observed in unconsolidated reservoirs.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication48th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2014
EditorsLee Petersen, Ray Sterling, Emmanuel Detournay, Will Pettitt, Joseph F. Labuz
PublisherAmerican Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA)
Pages1156-1165
Number of pages10
ISBN (Electronic)9781634395236
StatePublished - Jan 1 2014
Event48th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2014: Rock Mechanics Across Length and Time Scales - Minneapolis, United States
Duration: Jun 1 2014Jun 4 2014

Publication series

Name48th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2014
Volume2

Other

Other48th US Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium 2014: Rock Mechanics Across Length and Time Scales
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityMinneapolis
Period6/1/146/4/14

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

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