Formation damage and remedial stimulation

Abstract

AbstractIt is argued that a wide range of engineering data and geological data is required to make confident prognoses or diagnoses of formation damage. Potential sources of data are reviewed, with comments on their limitations. It is proposed that microscopic failure can cause formation damage in macroscopically intact rock at stress concentrations around the wellbore. The significance of natural fractures is reviewed in relation to formation damage induced by diagenetic mineralization or invasion by lost circulation material. Removal of such plugging material by acid stimulation is assessed in relation to diverting agent requirements.