Investigation of induced seismicity mechanisms and magnitude distribution under different stress regimes,fault characteristics,and operational factors

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With growing populations and rising living standards, worldwide demand for energy resources is pushing the oil and gas industry to develop low permeability reservoirs that are more difficult and costly to produce; these reservoirs are termed unconventional reservoirs. To unlock unconventional resources like shale gas from these tight rocks, hydraulic fracturing is used. This process involves pumping fluids under high pressure into the reservoir rock to generate fractures in order to increase its permeability. However, in addition to generating new fractures, the injection of fluids into deep formations also serves to create localized stress changes on**geological faults that can result in fault slip and small earthquakes. These are referred to as induced seismicity, and have become subject to public, industry, and regulator concerns. To address these concerns, industry partners are providing support for this research program, with focus to be placed on investigating the factors that influence the likelihood of having a seismic event of a given magnitude. The goal is to improve our understanding of factors influencing induced seismicity as a means to develop strategies to assess likelihood and mitigate potential hazards. The overall objectives will target three key areas: 1) stress regime (i.e., regional tectonics), 2) fault characteristics (e.g., orientation, structural complexity), and 3) operational factors (e.g., fluid injection volume). The research will integrate field observations and empirical data, with controlled laboratory experiments and state-of-the-art numerical modelling. The expected results will help contribute to Canada's body of knowledge and expertise in resource extraction, and will deliver improved hazard assessments related to induced seismicity potential. This will help facilitate risk reduction strategies for unconventional reservoirs, leading to economically as well as environmentally more sustainable operations. The research program will also train Highly Qualified Personnel who will be equipped with unique learning experiences and practical skill sets that are in high demand in industry. There is a solid demand in Canada for engineers and geoscientists with advanced degrees related to natural resource development and environmental mitigation.**