Estimation of the width of microfractures in shale rocks

Abstract

Anomalous results of permeability for rock samples from shale formations have been analysed. It has been concluded that the microfracture systems present in the examined rocks are the reason of the anomalous values of permeability. Dependences of overburden pressure on fracture permeability have been analysed. Simulative research performed for plug-type core samples allowed us to obtain permeability values in a function of the microfractures width.