ABSTRACT

The influence of 4D geomechanics extends to various hydrocarbon field activities, encompassing exploration, development and hydrogen storage in depleted reservoirs. Its significance becomes more pronounced when dealing with challenging and depleted environments during injection. This paper outlines the utilisation of 4D geomechanics modelling in the hydrogen storage in depleted reservoirs. The application involves employing 4D geomechanics to comprehend subsurface dynamics and strategically plan wells in intricate environments. This method integrates the fourth dimension, time, into conventional 4D geomechanical models. It involves estimating the unconfined compressive strength, which is a key parameter in assessing the material’s resistance to axial stress without lateral support. In situ stresses were calculated using poroelastic equations. 4D coupled simulation has been created using finite element method. The primary aim is to assess the stability of the formation and seal integrity. This model has improved the analysis of bedding plane failures by simulating the current stress profile. Consequently, future storage and production scenarios can plan securely, minimising reservoir damage and avoiding significant fault reactivation issues.