Numerical investigation of fluid-loss mechanisms during hydraulic fracturing flow-back operations in tight reservoirs

Multi-stage hydraulic fracturing is widely applied in tight reservoir exploitation. Production is enhanced significantly if hydraulic fractures can connect to sweet spots with enhanced permeability due to the presence of micro- (and induced) fractures. However, less than 50% of fracturing fluids are typically recovered. This study models the mechanisms of water loss and retention in fracture–matrix system and investigates their associated time...