REI has recently developed a computational model to predict flowback of hydraulic fracturing fluids after stimulation has been completed.  Using a combination of force and stress balances and computational fluid dynamics, our model is able to simulate many of the complex physical interactions that play a role in determining flow back rate and overall fluid recovery.

REI’s model includes considerations for:

• Fracture lengths and areas for a given pumping rate
• Fluid leak-off during fracturing and imbibition during shut-in and flowback
• Asperities formation during fracture closure
• Formation-driven fluid flows

REI has successfully used the model to predict the rate of fluid return vs. time and overall fluid recovery. REI is able to apply the model to optimize fluid recovery to ensure maximum fluid returned to the surface.