The Role of Induced Unpropped Fractures in Unconventional Oil and Gas Wells

The term induced unpropped (IU) fractures refers to fractures created around the main propped fracture that are too small to accommodate any proppant. These could include natural fractures and microfractures induced along bedding planes or along other planes of weakness. On the basis of production data, diagnostic methods, and field observations, it is becoming increasingly clear that IU fractures created during the hydraulic-fracturing operation play a critical role in determining the success of fracture treatments.

Introduction

There has been a debate about whether certain shales are naturally fractured. The classic example of this is the Barnett Shale.