Using Embedded Discrete Fracture Model (EDFM) in numerical simulation of complex hydraulic fracture networks calibrated by microseismic monitoring data

Simulation results indicate that the efficiency of well treatment is primarily controlled by the interconnectivity of hydraulic fractures and the distribution of conductivity within the fracture network. For a given microseismic cloud, a wide range of production responses was observed by changing the degree of connectivity in the calibrated model. Moreover, the study showed that taking into account the role of aseismic deformations (such as tensile openings) significantly increased cumulative production forecasts. Neglecting the effect of these fractures may lead to underestimation of ultimate recovery.