Matrix stimulation is the process of injecting a fluid, either an acid or a solvent, into an old or newly completed well at a pressure below the fracturing pressure to remove or bypass damage.
This technique has been used extensively since the 1930s to improve production and injection operations.
The goal of matrix stimulation in sandstones is to restore the natural permeability; i.e., to obtain the undamaged flow capacity in the pay zone by removing formation damage. In carbonates, the objective is to create a highly conductive flow system that bypasses damage to yield a higher production rate than that obtained in the natural, or undamaged, state.
Matrix stimulation is preferred to hydraulic fracturing when fracturing may result in excessive water production, undesirable gas production, inadequate reservoir drainage (highly fissured formation), and when well performance and reservoir management objectives can be reached by removing or by passing the damage. Worldwide, matrix treatments constitute 75 to 80
percent of all stimulation treatments, both matrix and fracture, performed.
Dramatic production and economic results can be achieved by matrix stimulation if treatments are properly engineered. In an engineered treatment design, many tasks are performed
within a structured methodology. This methodology, called Matrix Stimulation Engineering
(MSE), is defined as the practical application of scientific and mathematical principles to matrix
stimulation. The MSE process steps are:
■ candidate selection
■ formation damage determination
■ fluid selection
■ treatment design
■ execution
■ treatment evaluation.

 

Treatment fluid selection is an important process step involving many parameters. Fluid systems, composed of base fluids and additives, are selected based on lithology, damage mechanism
and well conditions. Each fluid in the treating schedule serves a special purpose. Although the process of fluid selection is complex, matrix acidizing can be highly successful and can produce
excellent field results.

Wellmeka’s Team has over 50 years combined experience in the delivery  of  engineering and ultimate result in various oilfields around the world. Are you facing issues of well production decline? Speak to us  today
 

What is Matrix Stimulation Engineering (MSE)?