The distribution of fractures in the Agua Nueva and San Felipe formations, northeastern Mexico
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36790/epistemus.v19i38.327Keywords:
fractures, microfractures, analogue outputs, crack-seal, modelingAbstract
Naturally fractured reservoirs represent one of the largest hydrocarbon reserves. This study examines the distribution of fractures in the Agua Nueva and San Felipe formations (Upper Cretaceous) San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Fracture measurements were taken from outcrops, cores, and thin sections, identifying a NE-SW set of partially open fractures with a minimum conductive aperture of 0.5 mm. The results show a higher fracture intensity in the Agua Nueva formation, as well as different stages of opening. It was also observed that the fractures in this formation follow a power-law distribution, while the fractures in the San Felipe formation are better modeled with exponential equations. Overall, the estimated fracture intensity at depth is around four fractures per linear meter. These studies provide data for static and dynamic models, which are vital during well development or enhanced recovery in oil fields.
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