Controls on mechanical properties of a carbonate mudstone: Insights from non-destructive techniques and geochemical data

This study quantifies geomechanical properties of carbonate mudrocks in the Arabian intra-shelf basin, focusing on different sedimentologic zones (proximal to distal). Core-based mechanical properties were obtained through unconfined conditions. Micro Rebound Testing (MRT) was conducted on 700′ ft of core at 0.5 ft intervals to capture high-resolution rock hardness (HLD), unconfined compressive strength (UCS), and static Young's Modulus (E). Additional tests validated log-based parameters, including impulse hammer, acoustic velocity testing for (E), P-wave and S-wave velocities (Vp and Vs), scratch testing, and XRF/XRD analyses for mineralogical and elemental variability impact on mechanical properties. Multivariate statistical analysis correlates mechanical properties with elemental data, showing direct proportionality to calcium percentage, (E), Vp, and Vs, while inversely correlated to aluminum, iron, sulfur, and total organic carbon (TOC), especially in distal zones. Porosity, as measured by neutron porosity log, is a significant control on mechanical properties, with higher porosity resulting in lower mechanical properties at any given calcium percentage. Variations in geomechanical properties within each zone are principally controlled by depositional environments, sediment supply, diagenesis, and a pycnocline dividing the water column into anoxic, dysoxic (or suboxic), and oxic conditions. Zone 1A and 4 exhibit high brittleness characterized by high Ca-calcite, HLD, (E), Vp, Vs., low terrigenous elements/minerals, and porosity. Zone 1B and 2A are moderately brittle, showing a slight decrease in brittleness and a slight increase in terrigenous elements/minerals, porosity, and organic matter, particularly in the distal zone (Zone 1B). Zone 2B, 3A, and 3B represent moderate to highly ductile zones with low levels of Ca-calcite, HLD, (E), Vp, Vs, and an increase in terrigenous elements/minerals, porosity, and TOC, especially in the distal zone (Zone 2B and 3B). This study highlights the value of high-resolution mechanical data from cores with applications for improved stress estimation and hydraulic fracture stimulation in unconventional reservoirs.