Instability mechanism and wellbore stability of hard brittle mudstone in the Mahu Sag: a hydration-fracture coupling perspective

Geosystem Engineering 2026

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Authors: Yin Zebin, Liu Kecheng, Wang Weiju, Ye Cheng, Gong Jiaqin, Shuai Wang
DOI: 10.1080/12269328.2026.2655737
Cited by: 1
References: 8

Abstract

To address severe wellbore collapse in the hard, brittle shale of the Wusan Member, Permian Urho Formation (Mahu Sag), this study establishes a chemo-mechanical coupled stability model using mineral analysis, micro-CT, and triaxial hydration tests. Based on linear elastic porous media, the model integrates a time-dependent damage variable and modified Jaeger’s weak plane theory. Results show that despite low macroscopic swelling (

Fields of Study & Subjects

Rock Mechanics and Modeling Hydrocarbon exploration and reservoir analysis Drilling and Well Engineering

Publication details

Journal / source
Geosystem Engineering
Publisher
Informa UK Limited
Pages
1–17
Publication date
11 April 2026
Language
EN