Imaging and computational considerations for image computed permeability: Operating envelope of Digital Rock Physics

摘要: Abstract This study defines the optimal operating envelope of Digital Rock technology from perspective imaging and numerical simulations transport properties. Imaging larger volumes rocks for Physics (DRP) analysis improves chances achieving a Representative Elementary Volume (REV) at which flow-based (1) do not vary with change in rock volume, (2) is insensitive to choice boundary conditions. However, this often comes expense image resolution. trade-off exists due finiteness current state-of-the-art detectors. analyzing digital that sample REV still sufficiently resolve pore throats critical ensure simulation quality robustness property trends further analysis. We find least 10 voxels are needed single phase fluid flow simulations. If condition met, additional analyses corrections may allow meaningful comparisons between results laboratory measurements permeability, but some cases fall outside technical feasibility DRP. On other hand, we ratio field view effective grain size provides reliable measure siliciclastic rocks. greater than 5, coefficient variation single-phase permeability drops below 15%. These considerations crucial when comparing digitally computed properties those measured laboratory. methods sufficient achieve both (with respect conditions) required resolution perform core coarse fine-grained sandstones.