Prediction of hydraulically transmissive fractures using geological and geophysical attributes: a case history from the mid Jhuoshuei River basin, Taiwan

The feasibility of using geological and geophysical well-log and borehole-televiewer data for the identification of hydraulically transmissive fractures is evaluated. Twenty-nine boreholes were drilled to a depth of 100 m in the middle-stream basin of Jhuoshuei River, Taiwan. Four criteria that assist in indicating the potential presence of permeable zones are proposed, including: lower gamma-ray response compared with the average response, divergence of the short normal-resistivity log relative to that of the long one, longer sonic travel time, and the appearance of discernible openings detected with the televiewer. With these, the transmissivities at the predetermined depths were estimated and verified by an in-situ hydraulic test. The statistical results indicate that, particularly in the mountainous area where a complex folded structure with a succession of synclines and anticlines is shown, the interpretation of lithologic conditions is not necessary to identify the presence of a relatively higher-permeability zone. Comparatively, the estimates of porosity and fracture aperture are the necessary premises to the prediction of hydraulically transmissive fractures. A joint consideration of all four criteria is found, allowing a less biased evaluation of the fracture transmissivity.