Anomalous distribution of microearthquakes in the Newberry Geothermal Reservoir: Mechanisms and implications

作者：Fang Yi^*; den Hartog Sabine A M; Elsworth Derek; Marone Chris; Cladouhos Trenton

来源：Geothermics, 2016, 63: 62-73.

DOI：10.1016/j.geothermics.2015.04.005

• Fluid-injection-induced microearthquakes
• Anomalous distribution
• Frictional stability

Stimulation of enhanced geothermal system (EGS) reservoirs by fluid injection can enhance the reservoir permeability but may also result in undesired microearthquakes (MEQs). A bimodal depth distribution of fluid-injection-induced MEQs was observed in the 2012 stimulation phase of the Newberry Volcano EGS Demonstration project in Oregon, US. During 7 weeks of hydraulic stimulation of well NWG 55-29,90% of MEQs occurred in the shallow reservoir (similar to 500 m to similar to 1800 m), only a few occurred adjacent to the bottom of the open borehole (similar to 2500 to similar to 3000m) while almost no seismicity was observed in the intervening interval (similar to 1800 m to similar to 2500 m). Our analysis of frictional stability using spatial models for fluid pressure diffusion of injected fluids show that the distribution of MEQs is consistent with observed casing damage, and a possible leak at similar to 700 m, and is inconsistent with migration of fluids from the casing shoe. The role of fluid injection through the ruptured casing is further supported by the analyses of shear failure and pore-pressure diffusion. Finally, the absence of seismicity at intermediate depths is consistent with our laboratory determinations of frictional stability, showing velocity strengthening frictional behavior for samples from intermediate depths, bracketed by velocity neutral and weakening behavior for samples from shallower and greater depths.

• 出版日期2016-9