Convergence of micro-geochemistry and micro-geomechanics towards understanding proppant shale rock interaction: A Caney shale case study in southern Oklahoma, USA

As a direct outcome of economic development coupled with an increase in population, global energy demand will continue to rise the coming decades. Although renewable sources are increasingly investigated for optimal production, immediate needs require focus on that currently available and reliable, minimal environmental impact; efficient exploration production unconventional hydrocarbon resources is bridging aspirations, during current transition period. The main challenges related accurate quantification critical rock properties influence their heterogeneity multiscale driven physico-chemical nature rock–fluid interactions. A key feature shale reservoirs low permeability due dominating nanoporosity clay-rich matrix. means producing these cost-effective manner, prerequisite creation hydraulic fracture networks capable highest level continued conductivity. Fracturing fluid chemical design, formation brine geochemical composition, mineralogy all contribute swelling-induced conductivity damage. Caney Shale organic-rich, often calcareous mudrock. Many studies have examined impact clay has different kinds productivity but there no data reported relation horizontal drilling; vertical wells which shallow, compared emerging play at double depth. In this work we develop geochemical–geomechanical integration micro-and nanoscales can provide insights into potential proppant embedment its mitigation. novel methodology amalgamates following: computed X-ray tomography, scanning electron microscopy, dispersive spectroscopy, micro-indentation, Raman spectroscopy techniques. Our results show Shale, structural translate variation mechanical interaction between host rock.