Data-driven characterization of high-permeability fractures and their influence on fluid flow in the Oligo-Miocene Asmari Reservoir using mud loss data

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

10-1-2026

Abstract

Drilling mud loss data interpretation provides a valuable approach for identifying fractures and faults within hydrocarbon reservoirs. The presence of fractures with high permeability near the wells’ drainage area is one of the significant factors responsible for high productivity in the Asmari Reservoir. In this oil field, the high permeability zones resulted in severe mud losses. This paper has analyzed the production index and flow rate of different reservoir areas and their relationship with mud losses by identifying high-permeability zones using mud loss data and investigating the effect of faults and fractures on the production index. Zones with high mud losses were identified using mud loss data from 363 oil wells, and a strong relationship was found between the production index and high flow rates for fractures in the reservoir. These findings offer practical guidance for optimizing drilling operations, minimizing formation damage, and improving well stability and production performance in fractured carbonate reservoirs.

Publication Title

Physics and Chemistry of the Earth

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