Fluid injection in reservoir rocks with X-ray CT scanning and active ultrasonic monitoring

Abstract

Simultaneous monitoring of ultrasonic acoustic waves and X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) was performed to quantify changes in physical properties of sandstones and carbonates during fluid injection. Constant and variable injection rates, at ambient and under-pressure conditions, were performed. Acoustic wave velocities were linked to fluid saturation levels and to specific geometries of the saturation front (visible through the CT scans). Both rocks presented similar evolution of acoustic velocities and saturation for each injection rate regime.