Modeling the (Sub)surface Deformation Field Evolution Due to Production from a Hydrocarbon Reservoir Overlain by Rocksalt

Abstract:

Rocksalt is an important caprock for sealing or trapping hydrocarbons. Given its relatively low viscosity, it may flow during and after production and result in time-dependent surface deformation. To predict the consequences of alternative production strategies, we seek to understand the primary controls on stress-driven flow and surface deformation of hydrocarbon extraction from a reservoir topped by rocksalt. The mechanical properties of rock salt are a key influence, but complicated. Depending on grain size, temperature, and stress, salt can deform mainly elastically, by power law viscous creep, and/or by linear viscous diffusion creep. In this study, we evaluate the evolution of production induced deformation using generic geo-mechanical models. Our strategy is to start with simplified geometries, rheologies, and forcing, and to increase model complexity slowly. Our results show that there are two distinctly different time scales that dominate the evolution of the models: short term subsidence and longer term partial rebound. The shortest time scale corresponds to stress-driven flow in the vicinity of the reservoir. The longest time scale is controlled by resistance to viscous flow and stress relaxation within a wider region of the rocksalt layer. We discuss the sensitivity to the thickness of the rocksalt seal, the geometry of the reservoir, and the distance between the source and the seal.