Advancing Digital Rock Imaging with Generative Adversarial Networks

Abstract

Abstract This article explores the application of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) in improving subsurface rock analysis. GANs generate realistic images of rock features, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of estimating rock properties. The objective is to advance the field of subsurface rock analysis, offering insights into the potential of GAN techniques. The article reviews recent developments in data-driven rock reconstruction technology, specifically focusing on GANs. It highlights GANs’ ability to generate and estimate rock features like porosity and permeability. These GAN methods are complemented by discriminators to select or reject features, making them integral to the reconstruction model. The article provides a framework for engineers and researchers to effectively utilize these techniques for rock reconstruction, offering an assessment of their strengths and limitations. Digital rock reconstruction, aided by GANs, has promising implications for site selection and recovery. GANs enhance image resolution, improving the field of view and dynamism of parameters in rock analysis. However, GANs heavily rely on high-quality data, which poses a limitation. To address this, conditional GANs have been proposed. The article comprehensively reviews the latest developments in GAN methods for digital rock reconstruction, offering valuable insights for engineers and researchers using GANs for accurate subsurface rock analysis. It also proposes ways to enhance these methods and advance the field. The novelty of this article lies in its exploration of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) in the context of subsurface rock analysis. It emphasizes the potential of GAN techniques to generate realistic rock images and estimate properties like porosity and permeability. Additionally, the article discusses the integration of GANs into the digital rock concept, highlighting their role in improving predictive models and supporting decision-making in the oil and gas industry's resource extraction and production strategies.