Fractal Analysis in Unconventional Reservoirs: Theory and Applications
A special issue of Fractal and Fractional (ISSN 2504-3110). This special issue belongs to the section "Engineering".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2026 | Viewed by 535
Special Issue Editors
Interests: geological evaluation of unconventional reservoirs; experimental petrophysical characterization of complex reservoirs
Interests: reservoir characterization and modeling; AI-based geological interpretation
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
The study of unconventional reservoirs has emerged as a critical frontier in energy exploration and development, driven by the unique challenges posed by their complex and heterogeneous pore structures. Fractal theory, with its ability to quantify irregular and self-similar patterns across multiple scales, has become an indispensable tool for characterizing the pore structure of unconventional reservoirs. By integrating fractal mathematics with advanced pore structure analysis techniques, researchers are gaining unprecedented insights into the connectivity, permeability, and fluid storage mechanisms of unconventional reservoirs—from shale and tight sandstones to coalbed methane formations. These advancements not only enhance our understanding of reservoir behavior but also play a pivotal role in evaluating reservoir quality, optimizing hydrocarbon recovery strategies, and reducing environmental risks associated with extraction processes.
The focus of this Special Issue is to showcase cutting-edge research that advances the theory, methodology, and application of fractal characterization and pore structure analysis in unconventional reservoirs. We aim to bring together interdisciplinary studies that bridge mathematics, geology, petroleum engineering, and material science, providing a comprehensive platform for exchanging innovative ideas and technical breakthroughs.
Dr. Dianshi Xiao
Dr. Xixin Wang
Dr. Nengwu Zhou
Guest Editors
Manuscript Submission Information
Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.
Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Fractal and Fractional is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.
Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.
Keywords
- fractal models for quantifying pore size distribution and surface roughness
- multiscale pore structure analysis using fractal theory
- fractal-based permeability and fluid flow simulation in low-permeability
- correlation between fractal dimensions and reservoir properties (e.g., porosity, oiliness)
- machine learning integrated with fractal analysis for reservoir classification and evaluation
- fractal characterization of diagenetic processes and their impact on pore evolution
- application of fractal theory in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques for unconventional resources
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
- Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
- Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
- Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
- External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
- Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.
Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.
