Study on rock mechanics characteristics of deep shale in Luzhou block and the influence on reservoir fracturing

Abstract

Abstract This paper aims to study the influence of deep formation conditions on the mechanical properties of shale, which is of great significance for the engineering application of efficient development of deep shale gas. In this study, a real‐time high‐temperature (25°C–170°C) triaxial compression experiment was first carried out on shale samples. Then, based on the analysis results of rock mineral components and discrete element numerical simulation technology, a thermo‐mechanical coupling model (TMCM) was constructed, and the accuracy of the numerical model was verified. Finally, based on the micromechanical parameters, a numerical fracturing mechanism model considering the influence of temperature, natural fracture density, and fracture length was established, and the influence of current reservoir conditions on hydraulic fracturing was discussed. The results show that confining pressure has a greater effect on rock mechanics than temperature. When the temperature exceeds 110°C, the plasticity of rock samples increases, and the fracture morphology becomes complex. In addition, the increase in temperature promotes the fracture of microcracks to a certain extent. The research results are expected to provide a sufficient theoretical basis for the development and utilization of deep shale gas resources.

Keywords

• deep shale gas
• PFC
• rock mechanics
• temperature
• XRD