Hydraulic Fracture Monitoring & Mapping
Map of hydraulic fractures derived from our Discrete Fracture Network product
In order to successfully develop their unconventional reservoirs, operators must have a better understanding of the fracture geometry, and also improve their reservoirs' stimulated volume. Both of these can be achieved through hydraulic fracture monitoring and mapping.
Microseismic monitoring is the practice of listening to passive, microseismic activity caused by hydraulic fracturing, reservoir subsidence, and water, steam, or CO2 injection or sequestration. Passive microseismic activity is recorded over time to produce 4-D images of microseismic events and source mechanisms.
MicroSeismic, Inc.'s (MSI's) hydraulic fracture monitoring, mapping, and analysis services provide clients with a better understanding of the fracture geometry, azimuth, connectivity, density, and length. This allows improvements to be made to the frac program in real-time, including modifications to pump pressure and rate or proppant mesh.
In addition, operators can identify patterns of fluid movement, fracture development, connectivity, compaction and whether the frac and proppant are staying "in zone" or travelling "out of zone". These critical insights allow the stimulation treatment plan to be refined, and provide insights useful for long-term improvements to the well spacing plan, the well design, and the completion design.
Ultimately, hydraulic fracture mapping via microseismic monitoring helps to optimize the stimulated reservoir volume while allowing for improved production rates and bookable reserves.
To learn more about hydraulic fracture monitoring and mapping services, please contact MicroSeismic.
