A Rock Physics Based Investigation of Pore Structure Variations Associated with a CO2 Flood in a Clastic Reservoir, Delhi, LA

Abstract

The permeability in siliclastic rocks can vary due to different pore geometries. The pore properties of a formation can also have significant effects on reflection coefficient. The pore structure of clastic rock may be predicted from a wave reflection using mathematical models. Biot-Gassmann and Sun’s equations are examples of two models which were used in this research to quantify the pore property. The purpose of this thesis is to measure variations in porosity and permeability using 3-D time lapsed seismic during a CO_(2) flood.

CO_(2) sequestration EOR will most likely cause permanent diagenetic effects that will alter pore geometry and permeability. This research shows compelling evidence that the pore structure changes in an active CO_(2) flood at the Delhi Holt-Bryant reservoir can be measured with acoustic data. The pore property change is measured by using the Baechle ratio, the Gassmann model, and the Sun framework flexibility factor. The change in the pore properties of the formation also indicates a increase in the permeability of the reservoir as a result of CO_(2) interaction.