Deformation mechanics and acoustic propagation in reservoir rock under brine and oil saturation: An experimental study

T. D. Rathnaweera, L. Romain, P. G. Ranjith, M. S. A. Perera

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

7 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Deep saline aquifers and depleted oil fields have been identified as two main potential geological sinks for CO2 sequestration due to their preferable geological conditions. However, correct understanding of their in-situ chemicomechanical properties (prior to CO2 injection) is necessary to evaluate their safe and long-term CO2 storage potential. This study therefore investigated the effect of brine and oil saturations on the mechanical and acoustic properties of reservoir rock by performing a series of strength tests using acoustic emission technology. According to the test results, the mechanical responses of reservoir rocks vary with the saturation condition, and the existence of brine and oil in water-saturated reservoir rocks causes their mechanical properties to be noticeably enhanced.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)544-551
Number of pages8
JournalEnergy Procedia
Volume88
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jun 2016

Keywords

  • CO sequestration
  • Compressive strength
  • Deep saline aquifers
  • Oil fields

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