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Numerical simulation of hydraulic-natural fracture interaction based on the continuous-discontinuous element method
Kai Yang1,2, Guopeng Huang1,2, Fujian Zhou3,4
1State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Resources and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (Beijing), Beijing, 102249, China.
Scientific Reports
|January 6, 2026
Summary
This study reveals how natural fracture properties influence hydraulic fracturing in shale reservoirs. Optimizing injection rates and fracture parameters is key to controlling fracture network complexity and improving reservoir stimulation.
Area of Science:
- Petroleum Engineering
- Geomechanics
- Reservoir Engineering
Background:
- Shale reservoirs contain natural discontinuities (fractures, faults) that critically affect hydraulic fracture network development.
- Understanding the interplay between natural fractures and hydraulic fractures is essential for effective reservoir stimulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of natural fracture parameters on hydraulic fracture network formation in shale reservoirs.
- To analyze how natural fracture angle, stress difference, strength, and injection rate influence fracture morphology and complexity.
Main Methods:
- Development of a stress-seepage-fracture multi-field coupling model for fractured reservoirs.
- Application of the continuous-discontinuous algorithm to simulate fracture propagation.
- Systematic analysis of various natural fracture parameters and injection rates.
Main Results:
- Natural fracture angle and stress difference jointly dictate fracture propagation, with high values promoting direct crossing.
- Increased natural fracture strength hinders activation but promotes branching; higher injection rates enhance natural fracture activation.
- Fracture complexity accelerates with injection rate, but peak complexity occurs at 0.001 m³/s, not 0.01 m³/s for a given volume.
Conclusions:
- Natural fracture characteristics significantly control hydraulic fracture network geometry and complexity.
- Injection rate is a critical parameter for activating natural fractures and influencing fracture complexity.
- Findings provide guidance for optimizing fracturing design parameters in shale reservoirs.
Keywords:
Continuous-discontinuous element methodFracture networkHydraulic fracturingNatural fractureMore Related Videos
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