Quantitative Characterization and Controlling Factors of Shallow Shale Reservoir in Taiyang Anticline, Zhaotong Area, China

Pore and its structural characteristics are key parameters affecting shale gas reservoir development. Accurate quantitative characterization of shale pore and its structural characteristics is of great significance for evaluating shale reservoir state. In this study, 15 shallow marine shale samples were collected in Well Y108. X-ray diffraction results indicate that brittle minerals are the most common components in shale. In this paper, various pore types are classified and characterized by scanning electron microscope images. The total porosity of shale measured by the mercury intrusion method is between 3.2% and 6.5%. In addition, a petrophysical model is established to calculate matrix porosity and fracture. The results of this model are consistent with the measured porosity. Three key parameters (V-TOC > V-Bri > V-Clay) were obtained. The low-pressure N-2/CO2 adsorption experiment allows for the analysis of pore volume, specific surface area, and pore size. Finally, it was determined that the primary pore types and primary shale gas reservoir space in shallow marine shale are mesopores and micropores. The impact of shale constituents on pores and their structural properties is also covered in this work. The results indicate that the enrichment of total organic carbon and brittle minerals is conducive to the development of shallow marine shale pore-fracture system. Additionally, there is a positive linear relationship between matrix porosity, pore volume, specific surface area, average pore diameter, and surface porosity.

Automated summary

This study conducted a detailed characterization of pore characteristics in 15 shallow marine shale samples using various methods, and established a petrophysical model to calculate porosity and fracture. The results showed that the primary pore types in shallow marine shale are mesopores and micropores, and the enrichment of total organic carbon and brittle minerals contributes to the development of the pore-fracture system.