Well stimulation has the potential to fundamentally change the performance of the wellfield, reduce the need for raffinate neutralization or change the design criteria for the neutralization plant.
Well stimulation is primarily intended to inflate (open-up) the pre-existing mineralized facture network in the wellfield to help gas bubbles (CO2) escape. It can enlarge pre-existing channels and flow paths, increase pore space and make it possible for solution to move more readily from injection to recovery well. Doing so would improve connectivity between these wells, improve flow rates and copper production. To this end Excelsior commissioned a leading engineering and environmental consulting firm to undertake well stimulation modelling on a selection of wells within the current wellfield. The model showed that well stimulation successfully inflated pre-existing fractures over significant volumes around the central well within the 5-spot pattern.
Based on the successful modelling results, Excelsior is excited to proceed to field trials in 2023, subject to EPA approval. The EPA is currently processing Excelsior's permit amendment to allow well stimulation, which is expected to be approved in Q1 2023. Field trials are planned shortly thereafter.
Summary:
Well stimulation is expected to be successful at increasing the natural fracture permeability for significant volumes within the wellfield
Immediate permeability enhancement is expected to be one to two orders of magnitude
Although modelling results are very encouraging, field trials may not perform as modelled and operational conditions may affect the final results.
Risk factors that will be evaluated further as part of the field trials.
More information including graphical representations of the modelling can be found on Excelsior's website at
Excelsior also announces that
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Excelsior 'The Copper Solution Company' is a mineral exploration and production company that owns and operates the
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