Measurement of minimum horizontal stress from logging and drilling data in unconventional oil and gas

Abstract

This study utilizes logging data, drilling data and core reports to generate the minimum horizontal stress (Sh) profile for two Montney wells in North East British Columbia. Specific value of tectonic stress or strain determined from injection fall off analysis is included in the calculation. The conventional method calculates Sh by solving the linear poro-elasticity equations. The Blanton Olson method incorporates the tectonic, thermal effect and rock mechanical properties at each incremental depth. The vertical transverse isotropy (VTI) method, assumes different rock properties and tectonic strain in different directions. The Harikrishnan method calculates the Sh from the rock strength value at a given depth obtained either from logging or drilling data. The conventional method yields the Sh magnitude without any distinctive characteristic. VTI method shows higher stress magnitude above the Montney and reveals some good zone containment for hydraulic fracturing design. All methods have equivalent stress magnitude for Montney formation.