Effect of Biogeomechanical Modified Near-Wellbore Properties on Hydrocarbon Recovery: Insights from Niobrara Shale

Unconventional Shale reservoirs, with typically ultra-low permeabilities, have been a major focus of hydrocarbon production over the past few decades. In this paper, we investigated the effect of biogeomechanical altered near-wellbore properties on hydrocarbon recovery from tight formations, using Niobrara shale samples. We first obtained the mechanical and elastic properties of Niobrara shale samples using the scratch test method. Subsequently, we treated the core sample with a cultured microbial solution at distinct conditions. Further, we obtained the new geomechanical properties impacted by the process. Finally, we showed the potential impact of this altered near-wellbore properties on hydrocarbon recovery from the Niobrara shale formation. Our results suggest that in Niobrara shale reservoirs, biogeomechanical alterations of near-wellbore properties could potentially (1.) impact the mechanical, microstructural and mineralogical properties, (2.) reduce its mechanical integrity, and (3.) improve hydrocarbon recovery from Niobrara shales in addition to other stimulation techniques.