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Study on Fracture Interference and Formation Mechanisms of Complex Fracture Networks in Continental Shale Oil Horizontal Well Staged Fracturing

Author

Listed:
  • Shiqi Lin

    (College of Petroleum Engineering, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi′an 710065, China
    Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Well Stability and Fluid & Rock Mechanics in Oil and Gas Reservoirs, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi’an 710065, China)

  • Diguang Gong

    (College of Petroleum Engineering, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi′an 710065, China
    Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Well Stability and Fluid & Rock Mechanics in Oil and Gas Reservoirs, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi’an 710065, China)

  • Ziyan Li

    (Changbei Operating Company, Changqing Oilfield, PetroChina, Xi′an 710018, China)

  • Junbin Chen

    (College of Petroleum Engineering, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi′an 710065, China
    Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Well Stability and Fluid & Rock Mechanics in Oil and Gas Reservoirs, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi’an 710065, China)

  • Xi Chen

    (College of Petroleum Engineering, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi′an 710065, China
    Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Well Stability and Fluid & Rock Mechanics in Oil and Gas Reservoirs, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi’an 710065, China)

  • Wenying Song

    (College of Petroleum Engineering, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi′an 710065, China
    Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Well Stability and Fluid & Rock Mechanics in Oil and Gas Reservoirs, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi’an 710065, China)

Abstract

Continental shale oil fracturing dynamics are governed by interactions between hydraulic fractures and pre-existing natural fractures. This study establishes a fluid–solid coupling model using globally embedded cohesive elements to simulate fracture propagation in naturally fractured reservoirs. Key factors affecting fracture network complexity were quantified: (1) Weakly cemented natural fractures (bond strength coefficient <0.5) promote 23% higher fracture tortuosity compared to strongly cemented formations. (2) Optimal horizontal stress differentials (Δσ = 8–10 MPa) balance fracture length (increased by 35–40%) and branching complexity. (3) Injection rate elevation from 0.06 to 0.132 m 3 /min enhances the stimulated volume by 90% through improved fracture dimensions. The findings provide mechanistic insights for optimizing fracture network complexity in shale reservoirs.

Suggested Citation

  • Shiqi Lin & Diguang Gong & Ziyan Li & Junbin Chen & Xi Chen & Wenying Song, 2025. "Study on Fracture Interference and Formation Mechanisms of Complex Fracture Networks in Continental Shale Oil Horizontal Well Staged Fracturing," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(11), pages 1-19, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:11:p:2862-:d:1668238
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