Evaluating fractures in rocks from geothermal reservoirs using resistivity at different frequencies

One of the key issues to a successful EGS (Enhanced or engineered Geothermal System) is the creation of a great density of fractures. The detection and characterization of the created fractures is crucial in evaluating the geothermal energy resources in such EGS projects as well as in reservoirs for CO2 sequestration and storage. Methods to evaluate the fractures after stimulations are few, and limited in application. To this end, an approach to detecting and evaluating the fractures using resistivity data measured at different frequencies was developed in this study. The effects of fractures on resistivity measurements at different frequencies have been investigated as a function of water saturation in rocks with different porosity, permeability and lithology. Different rocks (Berea sandstone, and greywacke from The Geysers geothermal reservoir) were used in this study. The permeability of the samples ranged from 0.5 to over 1000 md for the matrix. The frequency ranged from 100 to 100,000 Hz. It was found that the effect of frequency on resistivity is different in rocks with and without fractures, especially in the range of low water saturation. The validity of the Archie equation depends on the existence of fractures, the frequency, and the range of water saturation. The relationship between resistivity and water saturation did not follow the Archie equation at low water saturation in some rocks with fractures. Models for characterizing different types of rocks with specific fracture patterns have been established using the resistivity data measured at different frequencies and different water saturations. •Effects of fracture and frequency on resistivity in rocks have been investigated.•Models for characterizing fractures in rocks have been established.•It is possible to use the approach in enhanced geothermal systems.