Study on dynamic imbibition mechanism of matrix-fracture in three dimensions tight sandstone based on level set method

Tight oil reservoirs require fracturing techniques to create complex fracture networks for efficient development. It is frequently accompanied by a dynamic matrix-fracture imbibition process, promoting enhanced recovery. At present, the mechanism of three dimensions (3D) matrix-fracture dynamic imbibition at the pore scale has not been fully elucidated. In this paper, the dynamic imbibition process of oil-water two phases in matrix-fracture was simulated based on the Navier–Stokes equations, and the level set method was used to capture the real-time interfacial changes between the two phases. It was found that during matrix-fracture dynamic imbibition process, oil-phase droplets in a single pore remain in the pore mainly due to the “stuck” effect. Cluster residual oil in the pore space is mainly retained due to the “flow around” effect. Continuous residual oil in the deeper regions of the matrix is due to insufficient capillary force. Water phase in the micro-confinement space of a tight reservoir intrudes into the pore space along the pore corners, forming the “fingering” phenomenon is beneficial for enhancing the efficiency of micro-dynamic imbibition. It differs from cognition obtained in the micro-view space during conventional water flooding. The enhancement of imbibition efficiency is often accompanied by the occurrence of fluctuations in the average pressure within the matrix. Therefore, a method involving impulse type of high-frequency and short-period for supplemental energy and imbibition is suggested to enhance recovery in tight sandstone reservoirs. This study reveals the detailed mechanisms of oil-water two-phase transport at different stages in the dynamic imbibition process and holds significant guiding implications for enhancing recovery in this type of reservoirs.