Source Rock Reactor Imaging for Real-Time Hydrocarbon Yield Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Determining the presence and quality of hydrocarbons in subterranean source rocks before drilling is challenging, as existing methods are invasive and costly, and do not provide real-time insights into hydrocarbon yield potential.
Innovation Solution
A non-invasive system using micro-CT scanning and time-series analysis within a temperature- and pressure-controlled reactor to image source rock samples during pyrolysis, enabling real-time determination of hydrocarbon yield and properties without oxygen, allowing for rapid evaluation and reduced experimental costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laboratory experiments with artificial maturation or pyrolysis are conducted to characterize source rock quality, then hydrocarbon yield potential can be determined, but the process is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary non-invasive imaging of the source rock sample before pyrolysis to establish baseline properties. This preliminary characterization allows for faster interpretation of pyrolysis results and reduces the overall time required for source rock evaluation, as the structural and compositional information is obtained in advance rather than requiring multiple sequential experiments
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates detailed digital copies of the source rock sample using micro-CT scanning and other imaging techniques. These digital models serve as virtual replicas that can be analyzed repeatedly without physical intervention, eliminating the need for multiple physical samples and reducing the time required for repeated measurements and experiments
2Loss of information
If multiple experiments are conducted to determine source rock parameters, then comprehensive data can be obtained, but experimental cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a multi-functional evaluation approach where a single integrated system performs multiple measurement functions simultaneously. The imaging system captures structural, compositional, and textural information in one operation, while the pyrolysis apparatus concurrently measures thermal degradation characteristics and hydrocarbon generation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate experiments, reducing both time and cost while maintaining comprehensive data quality
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges previously separate characterization techniques into a unified evaluation platform. Non-invasive imaging (micro-CT, MRI) is combined with thermal analysis (pyrolysis, DSC) and hydrocarbon generation measurements in a single integrated system. This consolidation allows simultaneous acquisition of multiple parameters from the same sample under controlled conditions, reducing the number of experiments needed and lowering overall experimental costs
3Reliability
If traditional invasive methods are used to assess hydrocarbon presence, then direct samples can be obtained, but the source rock may be damaged or altered
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical drilling and physical sampling methods with non-invasive imaging techniques such as micro-CT scanning, MRI, and X-ray fluorescence. These methods use electromagnetic radiation instead of mechanical force to probe the source rock, eliminating physical disruption while providing detailed information about hydrocarbon presence, pore structure, and mineral composition. The source rock remains intact and unaltered throughout the measurement process
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces electromagnetic radiation as an intermediary between the measurement apparatus and the source rock sample. Instead of direct mechanical contact that could damage the sample, electromagnetic fields serve as a non-contact mediator to probe internal structure, composition, and hydrocarbon content. This intermediary approach enables reliable assessment while preserving source rock integrity
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
Enables rapid, cost-effective assessment of hydrocarbon potential by providing quantitative parameters and kinetic insights, facilitating informed decision-making for hydrocarbon extraction operations.
Implementation Method 1
applying heat and pressure to the source rock sample in the reactor vessel to simulate maturation of the subsurface formation
Implementation Method 2
a radiation source and a detector bracketing the reactor vessel, wherein the radiation source, the detector, and the reactor vessel are rotatable relative to each other
Implementation Method 3
The hydrocarbon yield potential of a source rock sample can be determined by measuring the hydrocarbon yield of a sample of the source rock after undergoing artificial maturation (e.g., pyrolysis) in a temperature- and pressure-controlled reactor
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for evaluating source rock include: a reactor vessel comprising a body with an internal cavity sized to receive a sample holder, a heating system, a radiation source and a detector bracketing the reactor vessel, wherein the radiation source, the detector, and the reactor vessel are rotatable relative to each other; and a processor in communication with the detector, the processor causing performance of operations comprising: obtaining a plurality of measurements of a source rock sample; generating a conceptual model of the source rock sample based on the plurality of measurements obtained; and determining one or more properties of the source rock sample based on the conceptual model.