Comparison analysis of fractal characteristics for tight sandstones using different calculation methods

The micropore structure of a tight sandstone is the decisive factor in determining its reserve and seepage characteristics. An accurate description of the pore structures and a complete characterization of the gas-water permeability are critical when exploring for tight sandstone gas. One simple and effective way to quantitatively characterize the heterogeneity and complexity of the pore structures in a low permeability reservoir is the fractal dimension. In this study, three different methods, each utilizing mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) data, were adopted to analyze the fractal dimensions and the fractal curves of sandstones from the no. 8 layer of the Xiashihezi Formation (He 8 member) in the Linxing block, dated from the Middle Permian. The morphological features of the fractal curves, the characteristics of the fractal dimensions and the theoretical differences between these three methods were also discussed. The results show that the fractal dimensions obtained by method I reflect the characteristics of the remaining pores that are not intruded by mercury, and they show that the involved pore scales are more comprehensive. While in methods II and III, both obtain the fractal dimensions of the pores intruded by mercury, the difference between them is in the selection of a simplified pore shape model, which results in the fractal dimensions differing by a value of 1 between them. No matter which method is adopted, the pore structures of tight sandstone reservoirs in the Linxing block exhibit fractal characteristics. However, the fractal dimensions obtained by method I are more suitable for describing the complexity and petrophysical properties of the tight sandstone pores in the He 8 member of the Linxing block. The fractal curves obtained by different methods are consistent to a certain extent in terms of morphological changes. Small pores (< r(max-point)) usually demonstrate more fractal characteristics, while large pores (> r(max-point)) are the critical factor affecting the seepage characteristics of the reservoir.