New Insights of Formation Damage Caused by Borate Crosslinker Fracturing Fluids

Abstract

Hydraulic fracturing has substantially increased the productivity of unconventional reservoirs. The most widely used one is the cross-linked fracturing fluids. Therefore this study analyzed the formation damage issues caused by borate cross-linked fracturing fluids. Results shows that permeability of formation and proppant pack conductivity are greatly affected by reside left behind. The unbroken polymer chains may be cross-linked again if favor conditions present. The residue will ultimately reduce the conductivity of sand pack and only a small amount of guar residue can be displaced with production. To minimize the formation damage problems caused by polymer residue, the concentration of breaker needs to be the optimum value. To help analyze the degradation extent of fracturing fluids, flow-back fluids can be analyzed through various chemical analysis methods, taking into account the dilution effect of produced water.