Fracturing potential evaluation of tight sandstone based on independent weight algorithm

Volumetric fracturing technology has emerged as a crucial method for managing and enhancing reservoirs in tight sandstone gas formations. In the practical development of tight gas reservoirs, the sand body exhibits characteristics such as multi-stage superposition, a multi-layered system of gas layers, and pronounced transverse heterogeneity. These factors complicate horizon identification and contribute to low drilling rates in sandstone, ultimately leading to suboptimal fracturing outcomes. To enhance the fracturing proportion of high-quality sandstone, this study modifies physical property formulas using core data and selects geological indicators—including reservoir thickness, porosity, permeability, critical strain energy release rate for gas saturation, natural gamma radiation levels, natural potential measurements, and deep lateral resistivity—as well as engineering indicators like drilling duration and hydrocarbon brittleness index. A comprehensive fracturing potential index model for tight sandstone is established through an independent weight algorithm. Based on tracer test data analysis, a strong positive correlation is observed between the fracturing potential index and gas production contribution; specifically, the correlation coefficient between the comprehensive fracturing potential index and gas production contribution across 54 sections from five wells ranges from 0.5599 to 0.7765. This methodology effectively guides the segmentation of horizontal well clusters while improving the fracturing proportion within high-quality sand bodies.