Time-Dependent Effects of Fracturing Fluid Retention on the Geomechanical and Petrophysical Properties of Tight Sandstone

Abstract The increasing demand for hydrocarbons and the depletion of conventional resources have encouraged the development of unconventional reservoirs using hydraulic fracturing techniques. While hydraulic fracturing enhances permeability, the retention of fracturing fluids in the rocks can weaken their mechanical and petrophysical properties, leading to several problems, such as fines migration, increased proppant embedment, and reduced fracture conductivity. This research focuses on the time-dependent effects of seawater-based broken fracturing fluid retention on the mechanical and petrophysical properties of Scioto tight sandstone. Experimental procedures were conducted on both intact and treated samples to evaluate changes in parameters such as Young's Modulus and effective porosity. The study employs techniques, including Non-Destructive Acoustic Test, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, X-Ray Diffraction, and Scanning Electron Microscopy, to evaluate the Young's Modulus, effective porosity, pore-size distribution, mineralogical composition, and surface microstructure of Scioto tight sandstone. Results show a decrease in Young's Modulus and effective porosity values with time of exposure to fracturing fluid. This research bridges the gap regarding the behavior of tight sandstone when exposed to seawater-based fracturing fluids for long durations.