Hydraulic Fracture-Height Growth: Real Data

TLDR

Public debate surrounds whether hydraulic fractures can reach the surface and contaminate groundwater. The study presents mapped fracture‑growth data from thousands of treatments, aquifer depth information, and a detailed discussion of limiting mechanisms supported by mineback tests and related studies. The identified height‑growth limits explain the predominantly lateral extension of fractures, and the data can refine models, optimize fracturing operations, and inform regulators.

Abstract

Abstract Much public discourse has taken place regarding hydraulic-fracture growth in unconventional reservoirs and whether fractures could potentially grow up to the surface and create communication pathways for frac fluids or produced hydrocarbons to pollute groundwater supplies. Real fracture-growth data mapped during thousands of fracturing treatments in unconventional reservoirs are presented along with the reported aquifer depths in the vicinity of the fractured wells. These data are supplemented with an in-depth discussion of fracture-growth limiting mechanisms augmented by mineback tests and other studies performed to visually examine hydraulic fractures. These height-growth limiting mechanisms, which are supported by the mapping data, provide insight into why hydraulic fractures are longer laterally and more constrained vertically. This information can be used to improve models, optimize fracturing, and provide definitive data for regulators and interest groups.