The hydraulic fracture - natural fracture network configuration in shale reservoirs: Geological limiting factors

The overall HF-NF network is composed of the main HF plus HF-NF branches comprising NF that have dilated connected by HF segments. A series of geometric models of NF populations are used to demonstrate how the orientation and size distribution of the NF in the shale, and the intensity of their development, limit the lateral spread of these branches. A broad dispersion of the HF-NF network is favored by a low in situ differential horizontal stress (ΔSh = SHmax-Shmin) and a high intensity of large and weakly cemented NF that are favorably oriented for dilation. Contrary conditions narrow the potential dispersion of the HF-NF network.