Shale gas reserve quality evaluation based on a comprehensive weighting method

A shale gas reserve quality evaluation approach based on the comprehensive weighting method was proposed according to geological characteristics and special development processes. Some key factors which have great impacts on shale gas production were selected to build an evaluation system. A hierarchical analytical method was used to calculate the subjective weighting factors and a maximum entropy method was used to calculate the objective weighting factors. A comprehensive evaluation model was built based on subjective and objective weight-ing factors. A development risk factor was determined after analyzing the completion and match with existing reserves data. Grades with or without a risk factor can be provided simultaneously. With the proposed method, the quality of seven shale gas reserves was compared and their development order was determined according to the ranking for undeveloped reserves. The results indicated that many factors including geological, development and economic factors should be taken into consideration for shale gas reserve evaluation. Meanwhile, risk factors should be introduced as an evaluation factor. The evaluation results considering comprehensive relevant factors are reasonable and effective and can provide useful suggestions for future shale gas reserve management.