Title : From kinematic modeling to fluid flow characterization

Objective :  To examine the effect of different fault propagation folding geometries and histories on the effective permeability field of a faulted and folded reservoir.

Methodology:

1. 3D, forward trishear kinematic modeling of extensional fault propagation folds using the program Trishear3D by Nestor Cardozo. Different scenarios will be examined: variable propagation to slip ratio, variable trishear angle, and variable slip along the fault strike. Lateral fault propagation of one or two interacting faults (i.e. relay ramp) can also be examined. The result of each 3D model is the 3D geometry and finite strain field of the final fault propagation fold.

2. Stochastic modeling of fractures within each fault propagation folding scenario. A discrete fracture generation software should be selected. The strain computed in Trishear3D will be used as a conditioning factor for the frequency and orientation of fractures within the faulted-folded reservoir.

3. Building of a reservoir model for each fault propagation folding scenario. Effective permeabilities will be assigned to the cells based on the number and orientation of fractures. Run fluid flow simulation in the model using flow lines (RMS), or more complex: Eclipse.

Why?

Different fault propagation folding scenarios will result in different finite strain fields, different fracture networks, and different permeability fields. The proposed methodology is an ideal workflow to test the above hypothesis. Stochastic fracture modeling is usually performed taking into account the magnitude of fault slip and proximity to the fault, but rarely having as conditioning factor the finite strain field of the reservoir, which depending on the fault propagation folding history can be quite complex.