--> ABSTRACT: Role of CT Scanning in Formation Evaluation, by Jerry L. Bergosh and Bennie G. Dibona; #91030 (2010)

Datapages, Inc.Print this page

Role of CT Scanning in Formation Evaluation

Jerry L. Bergosh, Bennie G. Dibona

The use of the computerized tomographic (CT) scanner in formation evaluation of difficult to analyze core samples has moved from the research and development phase to daily, routine use in the core-analysis laboratory. The role of the CT scanner has become increasingly important as geologists try to obtain more representative core material for accurate formation evaluation.

The most common problem facing the core analyst when preparing to measure petrophysical properties is the selection of representative and unaltered core samples for routine and special core testing. Recent data have shown that heterogeneous reservoir rock can be very difficult, if not impossible, to assess correctly when using standard core examination procedures, because many features, such as fractures, are not visible on the core surface.

Another problem is the invasion of drilling mud into the core sample. Flushing formation oil and water from the core can greatly alter the saturation and distribution of fluids and lead to serious formation evaluation problems. Because the quality and usefulness of the core date are directly tied to proper sample selection, it has become imperative that the CT scanner be used whenever possible.

Examples from the Monterey Formation, Yates Formation, and Nugget Sandstone demonstrate how CT scanning technology is used to overcome or minimize these problems. The ability of this computerized technique to image the core quickly and nondestructively offers the geologist a new and powerful tool to perform formation evaluation.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91030©1988 AAPG Annual Convention, Houston, Texas, 20-23 March 1988.