The Role of X-Ray Computed Tomography in Core Analysis

Abstract Over the past several decades, x-ray computed tomography (CT) has gained acceptance as a routine core analysis tool. Its use for in-situ saturation determination, for example, has made it the method of choice for steady state relative permeability testing. The main objective of this paper is to provide a repository of information on CT scanning for core analysis, and to group the many earlier studies into reservoir engineering categories for convenient reference by others in the future. The review is prefaced with the introduction of a conceptual model (Cloud Model) for representing the influences of major factors on reservoir NPV, and a discussion of the value of CT for core analysis. The literature review is followed by an update of emerging CT technology (microscanning), and presentation of a new method for 3-phase saturation determination using combined CT and NMR.