Predictive Pore-Scale Modelling of Multiphase Flow

Flow properties for a variety of porous media can§be predicted using pore-scale modelling with§geologically realistic networks. A state of the art§pore-scale network model is developed for this§purpose. It combines topologically disordered§networks that represent real systems with detailed§displacement mechanisms for any sequence of water and§oil flooding, and any wettability. The model is§verified by successfully predicting experimental§relative permeability from a well described water-wet§Berea sandstone. More complex experimental data are§subsequently investigated. By developing a§methodology combining realistic network topology with§network properties tuned to easily obtainable§experimental data such as mercury injection capillary§pressures, the flow properties for several porous§media can successfully be predicted. This is§initially applied to a water-wet sand pack. The aim§of this work is not simply to match experiments, but§to use easily acquired data to predict§difficult-to-measure properties. Furthermore, the§variation of these properties in the field, due to§wettability trends and different pore structures, can§now be predicted reliably.