Theoretical Definition of Formation Damage Zone With Applications to Well Stimulation

Abstract

Flow of particulate suspension in porous media with particle retention and consequent permeability reduction is discussed. Using analytical model for suspension injection via single well, the permeability damage zone size was defined and expressed by transcendental equation. Analysis of field data shows that usually the size of damaged zone does not extend more than 1 m beyond the injector. The definition of damage zone size is used for design of well stimulation via deposition removal.