Characterization of the Macroscopic Impact of Diverse Microscale Transport Mechanisms of Gas in Micro-Nano Pores and Fractures

Abstract

The objective of this study is to construct a refined microscopic transport model that elucidates the transport mechanisms of gas flow within micro-nano pores and fractures. The collective impact of various microscopic transport mechanisms was explained through the apparent permeability model, specifically related to gases such as methane and carbon dioxide, within the shale matrix. The apparent permeability models, taking into account microscopic transport mechanisms such as slippage flow, Knudsen diffusion, transition flow, and surface diffusion, were established individually. Subsequently, the influencing factors on apparent permeability were analyzed. The results demonstrate that the apparent permeability of the shale reservoir matrix is significantly influenced by pore pressure, temperature, pore size, and total organic carbon (TOC). As pressure decreases, the apparent permeability of Knudsen diffusion and surface diffusion increases, while the apparent permeability of slippage flow decreases. In addition, the apparent permeability of the reservoir matrix initially decreases and then increases. With increasing temperature, the apparent permeability of slippage flow, Knudsen diffusion, and surface diffusion all increase, as does the apparent permeability of the reservoir matrix. As pore size increases, the apparent permeability of surface diffusion and Knudsen diffusion decreases, while the apparent permeability of slippage flow and the reservoir matrix increases. Furthermore, an increase in TOC leads to no change in the apparent permeability of slippage flow and Knudsen diffusion, but an increase in the apparent permeability of surface diffusion and the reservoir matrix. The model presented in this paper enhances the multi-scale characterization of gas microflow mechanisms in shale and establishes the macroscopic application of these micro-mechanisms. Moreover, this study provides a theoretical foundation for the implementation of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) in shale gas production.