In tectonically influenced regions, potential hydrocarbon traps are subject to complex states of stress. This scenario often translates into severe strike/slip (SS) and thrust-fault or reverse-fault (TF/RF) stress states. The complete paper demonstrates that such complex stress states will affect well completions and hydraulic fracturing directly in a multitude of ways but that, often, some of the more influential consequences are severe casing failures, production-liner restrictions, and complex-fracture-initiation scenarios. Unconventional-resource development in such environments requires that a renewed focus be made in all phases of well design and construction.
Well Integrity
Distinguishing clearly between the two separate issues of well-integrity loss and reservoir-accessibility loss is critical when the presence of casing deformation or failure is considered.
