COURSE OVERVIEW:

4D Reservoir Geomechanics represents the essential integration of time-lapse subsurface changes with the mechanical response of reservoir and overburden rocks. This course examines how fluid extraction and injection alter the stress state and pore pressure within a field, leading to physical deformations such as compaction, subsidence, and fault reactivation. Participants will investigate the dynamic nature of rock properties, moving beyond static mechanical models to understand how the "fourth dimension" time influences structural integrity and flow paths.

The scope of this training covers the construction of coupled geomechanical models that link reservoir simulation with finite-element stress analysis. Attendees will learn to interpret the mechanical signals captured in 4D seismic surveys and wellbore sensors to monitor the evolution of the stress field during production. We will specifically focus on the risks associated with pressure depletion, such as casing shear, surface subsidence, and the reduction of permeability in stress-sensitive formations.

Coverage includes the application of geomechanics to enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects, where maintaining caprock integrity is paramount. By understanding the coupled relationship between fluid flow and rock mechanics, participants will be able to predict and mitigate geomechanical hazards. The course provides the technical framework necessary to optimize well design and maximize recovery while ensuring the long-term stability of the subsurface assets.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Explain the fundamental principles of poroelasticity and its role in 4D geomechanics.
• Construct dynamic geomechanical models that account for pressure and temperature changes.
• Analyze the relationship between reservoir depletion and the evolution of in-situ stress.
• Predict surface subsidence and seafloor bathymetry changes using analytical and numerical methods.
• Evaluate the risk of fault reactivation and induced seismicity during injection cycles.
• Assess caprock integrity and seal breaching risks in CCS and EOR operations.
• Integrate 4D seismic time-shift data to calibrate geomechanical model parameters.
• Monitor casing deformation and wellbore stability issues related to reservoir compaction.
• Utilize constitutive rock models to simulate non-linear rock behavior over time.
• Quantify the impact of stress-dependent permeability on long-term production rates.
• Design monitoring programs using tiltmeters, GPS, and downhole strain gauges.
• Perform coupled fluid-flow and geomechanical simulations for complex reservoirs.
• Develop mitigation strategies for geomechanical hazards identified during field life.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Geomechanical Engineers, Reservoir Engineers, Production Geologists, and Completion Engineers involved in the management of high-pressure or depleting reservoirs.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.