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Geosteering in Unconventional Shales: Current Practice and Developing Methodologies
- Publisher: European Association of Geoscientists & Engineers
- Source: Conference Proceedings, SPE/EAGE European Unconventional Resources Conference & Exhibition - From Potential to Production, Mar 2012, cp-285-00044
Abstract
Current well placement in unconventional shale ranges from simple geometric well placement to a gamut of patternrecognition systems and geosteering with geochemical and geomechanical analyses. The wide diversity of systems used leads to uncertainty in the effectiveness of any strategy, with confusion as to the true value or merit of a particular technique. Often, a well-placement strategy is based on what came before, with little regard as to the complexities or differences between reservoirs. This paper reviews the current common practices used in geosteering in shales, for both gas- and oil-producing reservoirs. A brief history of strategy development is outlined, with comments about its perceived effectiveness and value. Examples of successes and failures are examined to attempt to determine the viability of a particular strategy. Finally, alternative approaches and methodologies are reviewed and examined, with comments about the potential application, benefits, and value.