The sealing properties of faults in the Zhuhai formation of the pearl river estuary basin assisted by geological stress calculation models

Abstract

This study aims to systematically analyze and evaluate the fault sealing properties in the Zhuhai Formation of the Pearl River Estuary Basin using an in-situ stress calculation model. By constructing an in-situ stress calculation model, the distribution characteristics of in-situ stress are analyzed, and a fault sealing evaluation index system is established. The effectiveness of the model and methods is verified through case studies. The study employs various technical methods, including in-situ stress testing, data processing, numerical simulation, and sealing evaluation, combined with the regional geological background and fault characteristics, to comprehensively explore the mechanism of in-situ stress in fault sealing. The results demonstrate that the in-situ stress calculation model is more effective in identifying fault sealing properties, and the distribution and variation of in-situ stress are closely associated with the physical and mechanical properties of the strata. The vertical stress varies from 28.31 MPa to 33.21 MPa, the maximum principal stress ranges from 36.64 MPa to 43.68 MPa, and the minimum principal stress varies between 30.32 MPa and 35.61 MPa. Consequently, this study systematically examines the dynamic impact of in-situ stress on fault sealing, thereby providing a novel technical approach and theoretical foundation for oil and gas resource exploration.