Development of hot dry rocks by hydraulic stimulation: Natural fracture network simulation

This paper presents an advanced computational modelling of natural fracture networks in HDR (hot dry rock) reservoirs. The model stochastically simulates discrete properties of natural fractures, utilizing multi-set orientation and fractal mathematics. The simulated fracture networks are essential for further stimulation and fluid flow studies. The model has been verified using the data of actual fracture stimulation programs conducted by Gas Research Institute and Department of Energy at the multi-site. It is validated that the simulated fracture distribution is sufficiently similar to that observed in the reservoir. This paper also examines the detrimental effects of the simulated natural fracture network on the stimulated fluid flow capacity. The effective permeability enhancement (due to hydraulic stimulation) is found almost proportional to the density of the reservoir natural fractures.