Abstract
Pore network models (PNMs) offer a computationally efficient way to analyse transport in porous media. Their effectiveness depends on how well they represent the topology and geometry of real pore systems, for example as imaged by X-ray CT. The performance of two popular algorithms, maximum ball and watershed, is evaluated for three porous systems: an idealised medium with known pore throat properties and two rocks with different morphogenesis—carbonate and sandstone. It is demonstrated that while the extracted PNM simulates simple flow (permeability) with acceptable accuracy, their topological and geometric properties are significantly different. This suggests that such PNM may not serve more complex studies, such as reactive/convective transport of contaminants or bacteria, and further research is necessary to improve the interpretation of real pore spaces with networks. Linear topology–geometry relations are derived and presented to stimulate development of more realistic PNM.
Highlights
Studying, understanding and thereby predicting fluid flow through porous media are of fundamental importance to many areas of science and engineering, including carbon capture and storage, hydraulic fracturing, water management systems, in situ leaching, hydrocarbon extraction, fuel cell design, bio-scaffolds and the construction industry
Our results suggest that in some cases the Maximum ball (MB) may introduce throats, whereas the watershed algorithm (WA) could remove existing small throats that are present in the segmented pore space
The results presented do not suggest repeatability of these characteristics at different length scales; i.e. based on the results, one cannot claim a fractal nature of the pore space for extending potential models beyond these windows of observation
Summary
Studying, understanding and thereby predicting fluid flow through porous media are of fundamental importance to many areas of science and engineering, including carbon capture and storage, hydraulic fracturing, water management systems, in situ leaching, hydrocarbon extraction, fuel cell design, bio-scaffolds and the construction industry. A significant challenge to the nuclear industry is the design and construction of geological disposal facilities that will house spent nuclear fuel and waste. To emphasise the challenges involved in designing such a facility and its fitness-for-purpose over its life time, it is worth noting that the oldest known man-made structure, the cairn of Barnenez, is dated from 4900 to 3600 BC (Giot et al 1994). Understanding and predicting fluid flow in the vicinity of the depository is the key to dealing effectively and responsibly with the legacy nuclear waste. The oil and gas industry could benefit, as the effectiveness of oil recovery from reservoirs is dependent on the understanding of multiphase flow behaviour
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
