Theory and Research Progress of Cryogenic Cracking with Liquid Nitrogen in Unconventional Reservoirs

doi:10.11885/j.issn.1674-5086.2021.03.01.01

Abstract

Abstract: Liquid nitrogen (LN₂) fracturing is a promising waterless stimulation method, which could provide solutions for issues accompanying hydraulic fracturing in unconventional reservoirs, such as large water consumption, formation damage and environmental risks. Cryogenic cracking is the primary advantage for applying LN₂ in reservoir stimulation. Based on previous studies of LN₂ fracturing, this paper puts particular focus on the cryogenic cracking. Physical and mechanical property changes of rocks subjected to LN₂ cooling are elaborated, and the primary parameters influencing cryogenic cracking performances and corresponding mechanisms are analyzed in detail. Microscopic patterns and characteristics of rock damage are revealed from the perspective of mineralogy. Additionally, we also evaluate the applicability of LN₂ to rocks with various lithology, various primary pore structures and various in-situ states (high temperature, water saturation). The purpose of this paper is to help readers better understand the theory and research progress of cryogenic cracking with LN₂ and provide some theoretical guidance for future studies and applications of the LN₂ fracturing technique.

Key words: unconventional reservoir, liquid nitrogen, fracturing, thermal shock cracking, rock

CLC Number:

TE357

HUANG Zhongwei, WU Xiaoguang, ZOU Wenchao, YANG Ruiyue, XIE Zixiao. Theory and Research Progress of Cryogenic Cracking with Liquid Nitrogen in Unconventional Reservoirs[J]. Journal of Southwest Petroleum University(Science & Technology Edition), 2021, 43(5): 155-165.

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