Geophysics Promotes the Large-Scale Development of Shale Gas in Sichuan Basin

Abstract Development of shale gas in Sichuan basin, China, is challenging as the target is thinner than 10 m, the burial depth is deeper than 3500 m, and the structure and stress systems are complex. To promote the large-scale development of shale gas in Sichuan basin, dedicated geophysical techniques have been developed, and a framework integrating geophysics, geology, and engineering has been formed. In the integrated framework, geophysics works closely with geology and engineering from resource appraisal, well planning, to drilling and fracturing of horizontal wells. Application of this integrated framework coupled with geophysics, especially high-quality 3D seismic, can make significant contributions to the large-scale development of shale gas by reducing risk and cost while improving efficiency and profit. Also, the geophysical techniques described in this paper can be beneficial for the development of other cost-sensitive or risky conventional and unconventional resources.