Numerical Simulation and Mechanistic Analysis of Proppant Bridging-Induced Screen-out in Hydraulic Fractures

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This research aims to analyze the mechanisms and risks associated with proppant bridging in hydraulic fractures during oil and gas extraction.
Statistical analysis of pressure changes and fracturing conditions during proppant blockage.
Development of a model simulating momentum exchange between fluid and proppants using fluid dynamics and discrete particle methods.
Evaluation of factors influencing proppant bridging including proppant ratio and gap size.
Under high proppant ratios, multiple bridging points form, increasing blockage area (effect observed when proppant ratio >10%).
Continuous narrowing of flow area leads to exponential pressure increase.
Reducing viscosity and flow rate effectively slows down the formation of blockages.

Reveals that proppant bridging impacts flow in hydraulic fractures, suggesting potential for improved safety measures.

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Zhang et al. (2026) studied this question.

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