Analysis of diffusion coefficient and fracture aperture in coal using micro-computed tomography imaging

Xiao Lu, Ryan Armstrong, Meng Yuan, Yulai Zhang, Peyman Mostaghimi

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Coalbed methane (CBM), also known as coal seam gas, is becoming an increasingly important energy resource in the global natural gas market. Gas transport in CBM reservoirs remains a crucial research topic that has not been fully understood. Two scales of gas flow are identified in coal cores: flow in fractures and diffusion within matrix. The diffusion process is quantified by the gas diffusion coefficient while flow in fractures is governed by fracture apertures. This paper aims to explore the diffusion process in coal using X-ray microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) imaging. The experiments are conducted at 100 psi effective stress to eliminate the impact of pressure. The images obtained are registered for visualisation and analysis of the diffusion process and comparisons of fracture. In the paper, the impact of increasing effective stress on fracture aperture is demonstrated. Also, the diffusion coefficient of Krypton in coal matrix is estimated and discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSociety of Petroleum Engineers - Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference 2018, ADIPEC 2018
PublisherSociety of Petroleum Engineers
ISBN (Electronic)9781613996324
Publication statusPublished - 2019
Externally publishedYes
EventAbu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference 2018, ADIPEC 2018 - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Duration: 12 Nov 201815 Nov 2018

Publication series

NameSociety of Petroleum Engineers - Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference 2018, ADIPEC 2018

Conference

ConferenceAbu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference 2018, ADIPEC 2018
Country/TerritoryUnited Arab Emirates
CityAbu Dhabi
Period12/11/1815/11/18

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