Abstract

The Earth’s subsurface rarely stays in a lithostatic stress condition with stresses equal in all directions. The equilibrium of the stress state is generally disturbed by movement of tectonic plates, leading to the formation of a regional stress system, partially or completely overprinted by localized stresses associated with faults, folding, volcanism and so forth. Stress can create pathways for fluids to migrate and accumulate, making certain areas more likely to contain these resources. The direction of stress explains the nature of the forces acting on rocks and how these forces lead to deformation. In order to determine the stress magnitude and directions in a field, an integrated study of image log, acoustic log and core data plays a vital role. Wells are usually planned along the minimum horizontal stress direction to optimize wellbore stability. In our area of study, the presence of intense fractures and borehole breakouts observed in the Upper Carbonate formation help in analyzing the orientation of maximum and minimum horizontal stresses which is crucial for well planning, well completion, and reservoir development. Information on the present day stress regime help in the assessment of risk of borehole damage deciding on the optimal orientation of horizontal wells, enhance hydraulic fracture placement and overall reservoir productivity.