Numerical Investigation of the Primary Mechanisms Leading to Complex Fracture Morphology in the Near-Wellbore Region

This paper presents the results of numerical simulations of hydraulic fracturing in the immediate vicinity of the wellbore. This research aims to identify the primary mechanisms underlying the complexities in both the fracture morphology and propagation of longitudinal fractures. The study shows that the perforation attributes and characteristics, the cement quality, and the reservoir heterogeneity have a significant impact on the resulting morphology and the trajectory of the propagating hydraulic fracture. The study is based on properties and conditions associated with a field study conducted in the Austin Chalk formation, and concludes that the pattern and the dimensions of the perforations are essential factors controlling the fracture initiation pressure and morphology. The results of the simulation studies provide insights into the principles and mechanisms controlling fracture branching and the initiation of longitudinal fractures in the near-wellbore region and can lead to improved operational designs for more effective fracturing treatments.