A fracturing height propagationevaluation method for multi-lithological laminated shale reservoirs based on the characterization of equivalent macroscopic mechanical properties
LIANG Shuang1, 2, YANG Gongchen1, SUN Shuo3*, WANG Di4, WEI Jianguang2, 3, SHEN Anqi1, 2
(1. School of Petroleum Engineering, Northeast Petroleum University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163318, China; 2. Institute of Unconventional Oil and Gas, Northeast Petroleum University, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163318, China; 3. State Key Laboratory of Continental Shale Oil, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163318, China; 4. Research Institute of Petroleum Exploration and
Development, Sinopec, Beijing 100083, China)
Abstract：To accurately evaluate the fracture height propagation effect in multi-lithology laminated shale reservoirs during hydraulic fracturing, this study proposes an innovative mineral-composition-driven methodology for predicting equivalent macroscopic mechanical properties and enabling multi-parameter synergistic evaluation. First, a representative volume element (RVE) was constructed based on mineral composition. Through calibrated finite element simulations of uniaxial compression experiments, a meso-to-macro scale transition was achieved using periodic boundary conditions, allowing for the prediction and establishment of a quantitative relationship model between equivalent macroscopic mechanical properties and mineral composition. Subsequently, focusing on the shale-limestone interbedded reservoir within the Da?anzhai Formation, an integrated approach incorporating mineral-derived mechanical parameters, in-situ stress parameters, reservoir/interlayer parameters, and construction parameters was developed. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was employed to establish a fracture height propagation evaluation index. Parameter sensitivity charts were generated, identifying a critical index value of 0.512 as the penetration threshold for limestone interlayers. Validation was achieved by comparing calculated evaluation indices for Well A?s fracturing stages with field microseismic monitoring results, confirming the method?s accuracy. This research pioneers the integration of mineral mechanics and in-situ stress multi-source parameters for synergistic penetration evaluation, providing an effective tool for assessing and optimizing fracture height propagation in multi-lithology layered shale reservoirs.
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2026, Vol. 45 
