Research on Micro-Pore Structure and 3D Visual Characterization of Inter-Salt Shale Based on X-CT Imaging Digital Core Technology

Pore structure is the key factor affecting reservoir accumulation and enrichment behavior. Due to the complex mineral components and pore structure of shale oil reservoirs and strong heterogeneity, it is necessary to explore the micro-pore structure characteristics of inter-salt shale. In this study, in order to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the pore structure of inter-salt shale reservoirs, as well as evaluate the mineral composition and its spatial distribution characteristics, three shale samples from the 10th cyclothem of the Eq3 (Eq3(4)-10 cyclothem) inter-salt shale were selected to acquire 2D and 3D grayscale images by modular automated processing system (MAPS) and X-ray micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT), respectively. The color map of the inlaid characteristics of mineral aggregates was established by Quantitative Evaluation of Minerals by Scanning Electron Microscopy (QEMSCAN), and different mineral types in the grayscale image were determined. After that, the digital core technology was used to reconstruct the core in 3D, and the maximum sphere method was used to extract the pore network model, so as to realize the quantification of micron pore throats and the 3D visualization of inter-shale samples. Meanwhile, in order to compare the fractal characteristics of the pores of the samples, the two-dimensional and three-dimensional fractal dimensions of the three cores were calculated by combining the digital core technique with fractal theory. The study yielded several notable results: the pore structure of inter-salt shale reservoirs is complex and multi-scale, and the CT scanning digital core technology can effectively realize 3D visualization of rock microstructure without damage. The pore types of rock samples are mainly intergranular pores, interparticle pores, and dissolved pores, and the minerals are mainly dolomite, calcite, and glauberite. The micron pore throat radius of the rock sample is 0.5-13.9 mu m, the distribution of coordination number is mainly in the range of 1-4, and the shape of the pore throat is mainly triangular and square. The pore space of inter-salt shale has suitable fractal characteristics, and the three-dimensional fractal dimension of the three cores is in the range of 2.41-2.49. In sum, this work used digital core technology to study the microscopic pore structure of inter-salt shale oil, establishing a basis for further understanding of the seepage characteristics and exploration and development of shale oil.

Automated summary

This study analyzed the pore structure of inter-salt shale reservoirs qualitatively and quantitatively, revealing that the pore structure is complex and multi-scale with suitable fractal characteristics. The main pore types are intergranular pores, interparticle pores, and dissolved pores, with the main minerals being dolomite, calcite, and glauberite. The research provides a basis for further understanding the seepage characteristics and exploration and development of shale oil.