Reservoir Dissolution Simulation Using Graph-Based Multi-Media Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for simulating dissolution in reservoirs, such as carbonate reservoirs, fail to accurately represent the impact of fluid-induced dissolution on the evolution of reservoir properties and geometry, particularly when multiple media are involved, and do not adequately account for interactions between these media over time.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method simulates dissolution by representing the reservoir as a graph model with nodes corresponding to different media, where each node is associated with geological parameters, and simulates fluid flow using particles that dissolve rock, updating geological parameters based on the dissolution process to accurately model the evolution of reservoir properties and geometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a gridded geological model with two media is used to simulate dissolution, then the simulation can model particle paths in the reservoir, but it fails to accurately represent the impact of dissolution on the evolution of reservoir properties and geometry over time
Solution Approach 1:
The reservoir is segmented into multiple distinct media (porous matrix, surface discontinuities, conduits) rather than treating it as a single homogeneous medium. Each medium is represented by separate nodes in the graph model, allowing dissolution processes to be simulated with different parameters and mechanisms for each medium type, thereby improving accuracy without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The model transitions from a traditional gridded spatial representation to a graph-based representation that adds a temporal dimension through successive iterations. Each iteration represents a time step where dissolution evolves, allowing the model to capture the evolution of reservoir properties and geometry over time while maintaining computational efficiency
2Measurement precision
If dissolution simulation is performed without linking to time period, then computational simplicity is maintained, but the evolution of reservoir properties and geometry cannot be accurately represented
Solution Approach 1:
The dissolution simulation is structured as a series of periodic iterations, where each iteration represents a discrete time step. In each iteration, particles are injected, traverse the graph model, dissolve rock, and update geological parameters. This periodic approach allows the model to capture temporal evolution while maintaining computational efficiency through systematic repetition of the same computational steps
Solution Approach 2:
The graph model and initial geological parameters are prepared in advance before the dissolution simulation begins. The model structure, including all nodes representing different media and their connections, is established beforehand, allowing the actual dissolution process to be simulated efficiently through particle traversal and parameter updates without repeated model construction
3Measurement precision
If a reservoir comprising multiple media is simulated without accounting for interactions between media, then individual medium properties can be modeled, but the overall dissolution process and fluid circulation patterns become inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The graph model merges multiple media types (porous matrix, surface discontinuities, conduits) into a unified structure where nodes represent different media and edges represent connections between them. This allows fluid particles to naturally traverse between media types based on connectivity and permeability, automatically capturing inter-medium interactions without requiring complex separate modeling of each medium's behavior
Solution Approach 2:
The graph model structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it represents the spatial geometry of the reservoir, defines fluid flow paths, tracks dissolution progression, and updates geological parameters. This multi-functional approach handles multiple media and their interactions through a single unified framework, reducing overall model complexity while improving accuracy
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method provides a more accurate representation of dissolution and its impact on reservoir properties, enabling better understanding of underground void development and fluid circulation, and facilitating applications like groundwater management, hydrocarbon recovery, and construction safety.
Implementation Method 1
Dissolution is a phenomenon by which a fluid, for instance water, infiltrated in a reservoir, for instance of limestone, but also of dolomite, salt, ice or gypsum, causes a change in the porosity of the material constituting the reservoir, without inducing mineralogic change.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for simulating dissolution within a reservoir over a determined time period includes receiving a graph model of the reservoir comprising nodes and connections between the nodes, wherein each node is associated with at least one geological parameter, and simulating dissolution induced by a plurality of particles flowing through the reservoir during the time period. Each particle corresponds to both a volume of fluid and a volume of rock that the particle is able to dissolve. Simulating dissolution comprises, for each particle: determining a path of the particle through the graph model, determining a volume of rock dissolved by the particle at each node belonging to the path of the particle from the total volume of rock dissolved by the particle within the reservoir, and modifying the geological parameters associated with the nodes of the path according to the dissolved volume of rock at each node.