Reservoir Geomechanics from edX

This interdisciplinary course encompasses the fields of rock mechanics, structural geology, earthquake seismology and petroleum engineering to address a wide range of geomechanical problems that arise during the exploitation of oil and gas reservoirs.

The course considers key practical issues such as prediction of pore pressure, estimation of hydrocarbon column heights and fault seal potential, determination of optimally stable well trajectories, casing set points and mud weights, changes in reservoir performance during depletion, and production-induced faulting and subsidence. The first part of the course establishes the basic principles involved in a way that allows readers from different disciplinary backgrounds to understand the key concepts.

The course is intended for geoscientists and engineers in the petroleum and geothermal industries, and for research scientists interested in stress measurements and their application to problems of faulting and fluid flow in the crust.

What you'll learn

basic principles established in a way that allows readers from different disciplinary backgrounds to understand the key concepts
key practical issues such as:
- prediction of pore pressure
- estimation of hydrocarbon column heights and fault seal potential
- determination of optimally stable well trajectories
- casing set points and mud weights
- changes in reservoir performance during depletion
- production-induced faulting and subsidence

What's inside

Learning objectives

Basic principles established in a way that allows readers from different disciplinary backgrounds to understand the key concepts
Key practical issues such as:
Prediction of pore pressure
Estimation of hydrocarbon column heights and fault seal potential

Determination of optimally stable well trajectories
Casing set points and mud weights
Changes in reservoir performance during depletion
Production-induced faulting and subsidence

Basic principles established in a way that allows readers from different disciplinary backgrounds to understand the key concepts
Key practical issues such as:
Prediction of pore pressure
Estimation of hydrocarbon column heights and fault seal potential
Determination of optimally stable well trajectories
Casing set points and mud weights
Changes in reservoir performance during depletion
Production-induced faulting and subsidence

Syllabus

20, 90 minute lectures (in ~20 minute segments). 2 lectures will be made available each week.

Lecture 1 is an overview to introduce the topics covered in the course. Lectures 2-17 follow 12 chapters of Dr. Zoback’s textbook, Reservoir Geomechanics (Cambridge University Press, 2007) with updated examples and applications. Lectures 18 and 19 are on topics related to geomechanical issues affecting shale gas and tight oil recovery. Lecture 20 is on the topic of managing the risk of triggered and induced seismicity.

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Delves into the impacts of geomechanical stress on hydrocarbon exploitation, addressing real-world industry concerns and challenges

Taught by Mark D. Zoback, a renowned expert in geomechanics and author of the widely-used textbook on reservoir geomechanics

Provides practical hands-on experience through homework assignments, allowing learners to apply the concepts covered in the course

Covers a wide range of geomechanical topics relevant to the oil and gas industry, including pore pressure prediction and wellbore stability

Balanced approach for learners with varying backgrounds, establishing foundational principles and gradually introducing advanced concepts

Prerequisites in rock mechanics, structural geology, and earthquake seismology are recommended for optimal understanding

Reviews summary

Reservoir geomechanics: practical industry insights

According to students, Reservoir Geomechanics offers an exceptionally well-taught (positive) and highly relevant (positive) deep dive into geomechanical problems. Learners consistently praise the instructor's expertise (positive) and the clarity of the lectures (positive), which seamlessly integrate with a recommended textbook. The course is noted for its comprehensive coverage (positive) of both foundational principles and practical issues (positive) like pore pressure prediction and well stability, directly applicable to industry roles. The homework assignments (positive) are highlighted as particularly effective for hands-on learning (positive). While the course aims to be accessible, some learners suggest that a prior background in earth sciences or engineering (warning) is highly beneficial to fully grasp the dense material (neutral) and maximize the learning experience.

Lectures closely follow the recommended textbook.

"The lectures closely align with Dr. Zoback's textbook, which made studying and cross-referencing very efficient for me."

"Having the textbook is almost essential as it elaborates on concepts discussed in lectures and provides deeper context."

"I used the textbook extensively as a supplement, and it was a perfect match for the course material."

Homework assignments enhance practical understanding.

"The homework assignments were instrumental in solidifying my understanding of the material; they truly reinforced the lectures."

"Loved the hands-on experience provided by the homework; it wasn't just theoretical, it required practical application."

"The exercises were well-designed and directly reinforced the lecture content, making the learning stick."

Covers essential and advanced geomechanical concepts.

"This course provides a thorough grounding in geomechanics, from basic principles to complex issues like induced seismicity."

"A comprehensive overview that even touched on modern topics like shale gas recovery and seismic risks, very current."

"I found the breadth of topics, from well trajectories and casing points to faulting and subsidence, incredibly valuable."

Focuses on real-world industry problems.

"The course perfectly bridges theory with practical applications critical for petroleum engineers, truly valuable for my work."

"I immediately applied concepts like pore pressure prediction and well trajectory optimization to my daily tasks, very useful."

"Excellent coverage of practical issues encountered in reservoir exploitation; the relevance to my job was immense."

Delivered by a highly knowledgeable and clear expert.

"The instructor's deep knowledge and clear explanations made complex topics accessible, truly an expert in the field."

"Dr. Zoback is a master of the subject; his lectures are incredibly insightful and well-structured, a real pleasure to learn from."

"I really appreciated the clear and concise way Professor Zoback presented fundamental geomechanics, making it easy to follow."

Benefits learners with a background in geology or engineering.

"While foundational concepts are covered, a strong background in earth sciences or engineering is beneficial to keep pace."

"I found some parts challenging without prior exposure to certain mathematical concepts or geological principles."

"This course is best suited for those already familiar with basic geological or reservoir engineering concepts to maximize benefit."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Reservoir Geomechanics with these activities:

Volunteer at a local geology or engineering organization

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Gain practical experience and contribute to the community by volunteering at a relevant organization.

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Identify local geology or engineering organizations that accept volunteers.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Attend volunteer training sessions and familiarize yourself with the organization's activities.

Review ‘Reservoir Geomechanics’ by Mark D. Zoback

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Build a strong foundation by reviewing the recommended textbook, which provides a comprehensive overview of reservoir geomechanics.

View Unconventional Reservoir Geomechanics on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book.
Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts.
Complete the exercises and review questions at the end of each chapter.

Solve basic rock mechanic problems

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Practice solving basic rock mechanic problems to reinforce understanding of fundamental principles.

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Review the basic concepts of rock mechanics.
Find a set of practice problems online or in a textbook.
Solve the problems, showing all your work.
Check your answers against the solutions provided.

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Form a study group with classmates

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Enhance understanding and foster collaboration by forming a study group with classmates.

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Identify classmates who are interested in forming a study group.
Establish a regular meeting schedule and location.
Take turns leading discussions and presenting concepts to the group.

Follow tutorials on advanced well trajectory design

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Enhance understanding of well trajectory design by following guided tutorials.

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Identify online tutorials or courses on advanced well trajectory design.
Follow the tutorials, taking notes and practicing the techniques demonstrated.
Apply the learned techniques to design a well trajectory for a given scenario.

Attend industry conferences on reservoir geomechanics

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Expand knowledge and connect with experts in the field by attending industry conferences.

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Research upcoming industry conferences on reservoir geomechanics.
Register for the conference and attend the sessions that align with your interests.
Network with other attendees, including industry professionals and researchers.

Participate in a workshop on practical applications of reservoir geomechanics

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Gain hands-on experience and insights by participating in a workshop on practical applications of reservoir geomechanics.

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Identify workshops or training programs on practical applications of reservoir geomechanics.
Register for the workshop and prepare for the hands-on activities.
Actively participate in the workshop, asking questions and engaging in discussions.

Develop a presentation on production-induced faulting and subsidence

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Deepen understanding of production-induced faulting and subsidence by creating a presentation on the topic.

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Research production-induced faulting and subsidence, gathering data and insights.
Organize the information into a logical structure for a presentation.
Create visual aids, such as graphs, charts, and diagrams, to illustrate the concepts.
Practice delivering the presentation to improve clarity and engagement.

Career center

Learners who complete Reservoir Geomechanics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum Engineers apply the principles of engineering to the activities related to the production of hydrocarbons, which include crude oil and natural gas. This course provides a foundation in rock mechanics, structural geology, earthquake seismology, and petroleum engineering to help Petroleum Engineers address geomechanical problems that arise during the exploitation of oil and gas reservoirs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Petroleum Engineer

Geotechnical Engineer

Geotechnical Engineers apply the principles of soil mechanics and rock mechanics to the design of foundations and other structures that interact with the ground. This course helps build a foundation in rock mechanics and structural geology, which are important for understanding the behavior of soils and rocks and for designing safe and stable structures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geotechnical Engineer

Reservoir Engineer

Reservoir Engineers use mathematical and numerical models to simulate the behavior of oil and gas reservoirs. This course provides a foundation in rock mechanics, reservoir performance, and production-induced faulting and subsidence, which are important for understanding the behavior of reservoirs and for optimizing their production.

See salaries and explore the career path for Reservoir Engineer

Drilling Engineer

Drilling Engineers design and supervise the drilling of oil and gas wells. This course provides a foundation in rock mechanics, well stability, and mud design, which are important for understanding the challenges of drilling and for designing safe and efficient drilling operations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Drilling Engineer

Production Geologist

Production Geologists work with engineers to optimize the production of oil and gas from reservoirs. This course provides a foundation in rock mechanics, reservoir performance, and production-induced faulting and subsidence, which are important for understanding the behavior of reservoirs and for optimizing their production.

See salaries and explore the career path for Production Geologist

Geophysicist

Geophysicists use seismic waves to image the Earth's subsurface. This course may be useful for Geophysicists who are interested in understanding the mechanical properties of rocks and in using seismic waves to map faults and other geological structures.

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Hydrogeologist

Hydrogeologists study the movement of water in the Earth's subsurface. This course may be useful for Hydrogeologists who are interested in understanding the mechanical properties of rocks and in using groundwater flow models to simulate the behavior of aquifers.

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Engineering Geologist

Engineering Geologists apply the principles of geology to the design and construction of structures. This course may be useful for Engineering Geologists who are interested in understanding the mechanical properties of rocks and in using geological data to assess the stability of slopes and other geological structures.

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Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers design and operate systems to protect the environment from pollution. This course may be useful for Environmental Engineers who are interested in understanding the mechanical properties of soils and in designing systems to prevent soil erosion and contamination.

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Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design and construct infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. This course may be useful for Civil Engineers who are interested in understanding the mechanical properties of soils and rocks and in designing structures that are safe and stable.

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Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers design and build machines and other mechanical systems. This course may be useful for Mechanical Engineers who are interested in understanding the mechanical properties of materials and in designing systems that are strong and durable.

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Materials Scientist

Materials Scientists study the properties of materials and develop new materials for a variety of applications. This course may be useful for Materials Scientists who are interested in understanding the mechanical properties of materials and in developing new materials for use in a variety of industries.

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Chemical Engineer

Chemical Engineers design and operate chemical plants and other chemical processes. This course may be useful for Chemical Engineers who are interested in understanding the mechanical properties of materials and in designing systems that are safe and efficient.

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Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear Engineers design and operate nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities. This course may be useful for Nuclear Engineers who are interested in understanding the mechanical properties of materials and in designing systems that are safe and reliable.

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Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace Engineers design and build aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace vehicles. This course may be useful for Aerospace Engineers who are interested in understanding the mechanical properties of materials and in designing systems that are lightweight and strong.

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