ADX Energy Ltd reported the initial results of flow testing of the upper part of the Reifling
formation in the Welchau-1 discovery well on the 4th of December 2024. The Welchau-1 well is located in the
ADX-AT-II licence in Upper Austria. ADX holds a 75% economic interest in the Welchau Investment Area which
contains the Welchau discovery and other emerging prospects in the Northern Calcareous Alps (refer Figure 1).
Background
The upper part of the Reifling formation has been perforated and an initial flow test conducted. The initial flow
test did not result in sufficient flow into the well bore for reservoir fluids to enter the tubing string and allow the
Reifling reservoir fluid composition to be determined or sampled.
Sampling of the inflow has recovered primarily workover fluids (brine) and traces of black solid particles of
unknown composition, which may be affecting well flow. The composition of the solid particles are being
analysed at a specialist laboratory.
The well has been left shut in and the work over rig demobilised to undertake planned work at ADX Vienna
Basin Fields until further sample analysis and well data become available from Welchau-1.
Forward Program
Well head pressure recording equipment of suitable accuracy will be fitted to the well head to enable the
recording of the potential pressure build up due to well inflow. If sufficient inflow is observed then further
sampling will be undertaken and the well will be swabbed using wire line to reduce hydrostatic pressure and
induce further flow.
If hydrocarbons are recovered, it is intended that further testing of the shallowest Reifling formation will be
resumed, most likely, after acidization of the reservoir to overcome well bore damage and enhance productivity
in the carbonate reservoir.
In parallel with the above-mentioned activities, samples recovered from the testing of the Steinalm formation
will be analysed to determine if hydrocarbons are present as well as determining the composition and likely
source of solid black particles which were also encountered in the Reifling formation flow test.
The results of the well pressure monitoring, sampling and well fluid analysis are expected to be available early
in the new year after which a decision on further stimulation and/or testing operations will be taken.