Studying samples of reservoir rocks: core analysis gives the most accurate insight into the characteristics of a drilled oil or gas well and the conditions down-hole. Typically, core samples of rocks are cylindrical in shape, taken from a core that is obtained from the side of and measuring about 1 inch in diameter and 3 inches long. Apart from porosity and permeability of the reservoir rock, core analysis also explores fluid saturation and grain density. Together, these measurements help people involved in the oil and gas industry such as geologists, engineers, drillers, etc. better understand the conditions of the well and maximize productivity and efficiency.

Figure 1: High resolution volume rendering of A. rock core sample B. permeability within the rock sample C. pore connectivity and distribution.

NanoCT (here GE Nanotom M) provides an excellent platform to study porosity (B), permeability (C), and grain density (D) of a rock core (A). The extracted information provides critical input in understanding oil well dynamics and how rock characteristics, along with other parameters, drive the mechanism.

D. Statistical analysis of grain size, from which density measurements may be extracted.