A semianalytic time-resolved poro-elasto-plastic model for wellbore stability and stimulation

Abstract

Wellbore stability problems and stimulation operations call for models helping in understanding the subsurface behaviour and optimizing engineering performance. We present a fast, iteratively coupled model for the flow and mechanical behaviour that employs a time-sequential approach. Updates of pore pressure are calculated in a timestepping approach and propagated analytically to updates of the mechanical response. This way, the spatial and temporal evolution of pressure and mechanical response around a wellbore can be evaluated. The sequential approach facilitates the incorporation of pressure diffusion and of time-dependent plasticity. Also, it facilitates the implementation of permeability evolving with time, due to plasticity or stimulation. The model has been validated by means of a coupled numerical simulator. Its capabilities are demonstrated with a selection of sensitivity runs for typical parameters. Ongoing investigations target geothermal energy operations through the incorporation of thermo-elastic stresses and more advanced plasticity models. © 2020 The Authors. International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd