Hydraulic Fracturing in the Congo Onshore: Continuous Optimization Improves Productivity

This paper describes the successful ongoing process of optimizing hydraulic fracturing designs in a well campaign in Congo onshore to create best practices for continuing development. The fracture design program began by characterizing and evaluating the rock formation and its compatibility with stimulation fluids, including mineralogical and geomechanical properties, as well as regained permeability. For example, laboratory testing determined that the formation was soft and highly sensitive to water, indicating that a water-based fracturing fluid would require specialty additives to minimize formation damage.