3D quantification of mineral components and porosity distribution in Westphalian C sandstone by microfocus X-ray computed tomography

Abstract

Microfocus X-ray computed tomography (µCT) measurements were performed on deltaic sandstone samples from the diagenetically altered Westphalian C strata (Campine basin, north-east Belgium) in order to collect three dimensional data on mineral (quartz, kaolinite, ankerite, etc.) and porosity distribution. The acquired µCT data were compared with point counting results of stained impregnated thin-sections to qualify the sensitivity of µCT. Comparison between techniques shows positive results with regard to the quantification of main mineral phases such as quartz and ankerite, and porosity distribution. However, major discrepancies exist when studying the clay minerals. This can be explained by the influence of microporosity associated with these clay minerals, resulting in partial volume effects.