Managing to Reproduce Original Carbonate Core Condition: Is Core Initialized Realistically on Three-Dimensional Geometry?

In this study, we established initial water saturation (Swi) using three techniques: (1) the dynamic displacement technique, (2) the porous plate technique, and (3) the vacuum saturation technique. A unique heterogeneous carbonate reservoir rock sample (1.5-inch diameter and 3-inches long) was used repeatedly to compare the techniques without an uncertainty of different cores. After establishing Swi by each initialization technique, the cross sections were scanned using a micro-CT scanner. The image data was processed to estimate the cross sectional fluid distribution in XY-direction. Furthermore, each areal average Swi was calculated to investigate Swi distribution in Z-direction (direction of injection). Based on the comparison of interpreted fluid distribution, pros/cons of each technique was discussed.