FACT SHEETS (ARCHIVE)
|
|
Outdated, no longer a current activity - Micromodels and Network Theory |
Introduction
Micromodels are used to study the flow of oil, water and gas in porous media. Both fluid configurations and dynamic behaviour can be studied.
Micromodels
The micromodels are etched in a silicon wafer using reactive ion etching (RIE). RIE makes it possible to create pores with a rectangular pore shape. A Pyrex glass plate is chemically bonded on top of the etched structure. The micromodels consist 45,000 connected pores. The width of the pores ranges from 8 to 40 microns. The micromodel is connected to an inlet chamber where oil, water or gas can be injected.
Visual Observations
During experiments the fluid behaviour can be observed through a microscope. For continuous recording a video camera is mounted on the microscope. The recordings are also used to establish saturation of the micromodel by image analysis.
Key Parameters of Experiments
Quantities such as absolute and relative permeability, capillary pressure and residual oil can be measured and the influence of the following parameters can be studied:
- Injection rate
- Fluid viscosities
- Interfacial tension
- Spreading coefficient
- Injection sequence
- Pore size and distribution
- Pore shape
- Network size
The pore mechanisms observed can be implemented in a computer model. Simulations with mathematical network will yield a better understanding of processes taking place during the transport of fluids in porous media.
Past Activities
Two projects involved the use of micromodels. In one project a specific core analysis was studied in order to acquire knowledge of the physical processes occurring during the core experiment. A second project involved the study of microscopic displacement processes during different WAG and CGW injection strategies.
Partners
Microelectronic Center at DTU
Department of Geology and Geotechnical Engineering at DTU
Scientist: Anatol Winter
