Geomechanical Response Characteristics of Different Sedimentary Hydrodynamic Cycles—Exampled by Xujiahe Formation of Upper Triassic, Western Sichuan Basin

Qiqiang Ren, Lifei Li, Laixing Cai, Jianwei Feng, Mengping Li () and Xingjian Wang ()
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Qiqiang Ren: Institute of Sedimentary Geology, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
Lifei Li: Institute of Sedimentary Geology, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
Laixing Cai: Institute of Sedimentary Geology, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
Jianwei Feng: School of Resources and Geosciences, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221018, China
Mengping Li: College of Energy, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
Xingjian Wang: State Key Laboratory of Oil and Gas Reservoir Geology and Exploitation, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 10, 1-26

Abstract: This study delves into the geomechanical responses of different sedimentary hydrodynamic cycles in deep tight sandstone formations. Employing core observation and thin section analysis, we quantitatively identified and characterized bedding planes, sedimentary microfacies, and tectonic fractures. Then, the intricate relationships between various architectural interfaces and geomechanical parameters were elucidated. Subsequently, utilizing finite element numerical simulation software, in situ stress and fracture parameters were derived. By identifying a fracture facies zone correlated with the sedimentary hydrodynamic cycle and production data, our findings unveil several key insights: (1) Geomechanical parameters (Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, brittleness index) exhibited noteworthy variations within the T 3 x 2−5 sand group, indicative of weak elasticity and robust plasticity. (2) The effective distance, influenced by diverse reservoir architecture interfaces, displayed variability, with each transition between peak-valley-peak or valley-peak-valley pinpointed as a distinct sedimentary hydrodynamic cycle. (3) In environments characterized by strong sedimentary hydrodynamics (between two level 3 architecture interfaces), fractures with larger strike angles and lower dip angles were observed to be more prevalent. (4) Three significant fracture faces—level I, level II, and level III—were discerned within the study area. Notably, reservoirs associated with level III exhibited characteristics suggestive of medium porosity and permeability, indicative of a gas layer. By thoroughly understanding the geomechanical response characteristics of formations such as the Xujiahe Formation, it is possible to guide the exploration and development of energy resources such as oil and natural gas. This helps to improve the efficiency and safety of resource extraction, promoting the sustainable utilization of energy.

Keywords: geomechanical response parameters; sedimentary hydrodynamic cycle; reservoir architecture interface; finite element numerical simulation; fracture facies; Xujiahe Formation in Sichuan Basin (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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