This work aims to emphasize the importance of making an adequate structural interpretation in high complexity areas, with its consequent impact on the design of the development plan of an unconventional reservoir. Also present a new approach for the development of Vaca Muerta Fm. in a Field at early stages of development.
The methodology of structural characterization consisted of interpreting the kinematics of the faults present in the area, analyzing their extension and activity for the different geological times of each landing zones within Vaca Muerta Fm. Influence of active faults on the thickness and properties of the reservoir was analyzed. The structural activity between the different fault systems could have affected the depositional environment and especially the conditions of preservation of organic matter (dilution). This would explain why, in wells located in positions where there was greater structural activity, the total organic carbon (TOC) values are lower than in more stable areas.
Considering the structural interpretation and the petrophysical characteristics of the reservoir, the full-field development plan was carried out, with a maximum of four landing zones to be developed. Subsequently, it was decided to apply a novel Monolayer development strategy for Vaca Muerta, starting with the most productive level identified in the area, Unit 1, in the less structurally complex zone. The main technical challenges faced by this type of development were analyzed, such as 3D drilling geometries, surface limitations in pads to develop multiple levels of navigation, potential increase of casing deformation risks, among others.
The study area is in the shale oil core sector of Vaca Muerta Fm. located in the Neuquén Basin (Figure 1) and at 90 km from the Neuquén city. In this position the Quintuco-Vaca Muerta system has an average thickness of 700 m. It presents four levels of unconventional interest that have been tested in sectors where no structural risks were visualized.
