Fracturing Applications for CO2 and N2: A Supplier’s Perspective
Unconventional reservoirs present unique challenges for energy producers and oilfield service companies that seek to extract the maximum economic lifetime potential from their wells. These reservoirs, like shale, tight sands and coalbed methane (CBM) formations, are defined by their low permeability, low-to-no porosity and need for stimulation for economic production.
Unleashing the value of these unconventional reservoirs relies heavily on the methods of horizontal drilling combined with hydraulic fracturing. Carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen (N2) share a long history as fluids used for the successful hydraulic fracturing and stimulation of wells. Even recent studies indicate that fracturing with solutions energized by CO2 or N2 can economically achieve significantly more hydrocarbon recovery than non-energized approaches.
This session, presented from the perspective as an industrial gas provider, not that of an energy producer or service provider, reviews when and why to consider using energized fluids.
