Comprehensive Post-Fracturing Analysis of a Typical Deep Shale Gas Reservoir Pad

ABSTRACT: This study presents an integrated approach combining hydraulic fracture simulation, production history matching, and Estimated Ultimate Recovery (EUR) prediction to optimize well performance in a deep shale gas pad located in the Sichuan Basin, China. The boundary element method was employed to simulate fracture propagation, incorporating key reservoir properties such as in-situ stress variations, natural fracture networks, and rock brittleness. The model's accuracy was validated by comparing the simulated hydraulic fracture geometry with microseismic data and pumping pressure curves, revealing a strong correlation and confirming the model's reliability. Following the fracture simulation, production history matching was conducted, using gas flow rate constraints to match bottom hole pressure data, successfully capturing reservoir heterogeneity with an average porosity of 4.2%. EUR predictions demonstrated variability across the four wells, with Well-1, Well-2, Well-3, and Well-4 showing EUR values of 1.24×108 m3, 1.08×108 m3, 1.86×108 m3, and 1.50×108 m3, respectively. The results highlighted the impact of reservoir heterogeneity on production potential and provided critical insights for optimizing future well planning and stimulation strategies. 1. INTRODUCTION The development of shale gas reservoirs has emerged as a critical component in the global energy mix, particularly in regions with vast unconventional resources such as the Sichuan Basin in China. Shale gas extraction requires complex hydraulic fracturing techniques to unlock the potential of tight, low-permeability formations. This process involves creating fractures in the reservoir rock to enhance gas flow, but the heterogeneity of the rock properties, natural fracture networks, and in-situ stress variations can significantly impact fracture propagation and overall well productivity. Recent advancements in hydraulic fracturing technologies, combined with sophisticated simulation models, have provided deeper insights into fracture behavior and enabled better optimization of fracture designs for improved production outcomes (Liu et al., 2024; Pearson et al., 2024). However, the challenges posed by reservoir complexity continue to demand advanced modeling techniques and field data integration to ensure the economic viability of shale gas operations.