Experimental investigation of proppant flow and transport dynamics through fracture intersections

This paper investigates proppant flow and transport in intersected fractures at angles typical for intersections of pre-existing new hydraulic fractures. Proppant is small granular material, which placed into during geothermal hydrocarbon reservoir stimulation props the fluid paths open exploitation. study uses plexiglas laboratory slot experiments enhanced with advanced image analysis identifying particle trajectories quantifying slurry velocities. Although have been broadly studied, effects intersecting fracture not, especially coupled viscosities, rates, volumetric concentration effects. specifically role intermediate angles, identified to occur most frequently when intercept existing ones. Results show that behavior after intersection very sensitive carrying viscosity rates alteration while differentiating concentrations a limited effect. Fracture angle itself has clear effect on velocities settlement; furthermore, it enhances viscosity, concentrations. • Intersection transport. Fluid rate, sand enhance High-speed scientific camera records analyzed using Particle Image Velocimetry. Alterations affect most.