Wettability Determination via Multi-Frequency EM Logging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electromagnetic well-logging techniques face challenges in accurately determining the wettability of conductive and surface-charge-bearing particles in geological formations, which affects the interpretation of hydrocarbon exploration and production data, as they often assume complete water wetness, neglecting the influence of wettability on electromagnetic properties.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a material and subsurface characterization model to quantify wettability effects by identifying specific frequency ranges for electromagnetic measurements, correlating contact angles and interfacial polarization phenomena, and employing mechanistic models to determine the wettability of conductive and nonconductive particles within geological formations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electromagnetic well-logging techniques assume complete water wetness, then the interpretation process is simplified, but the accuracy of wettability determination deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by measuring electromagnetic properties at multiple frequency points and using the frequency dependence of these properties to determine wettability. Instead of assuming a fixed state (complete water wetness), the method varies the measurement parameter (frequency) to extract information about the actual wettability state, thereby resolving the contradiction between simplified interpretation and accurate measurement.
2Measurement precision
If multi-frequency electromagnetic measurements are performed, then the accuracy of contact angle determination is improved, but the complexity of the measurement system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal electromagnetic measurement system that can operate at multiple frequency points to achieve different measurement objectives. The same downhole tool and processing system handle both the electromagnetic measurements and the wettability determination, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If the influence of wettability on electromagnetic properties is considered, then the accuracy of fluid property estimation is improved, but the complexity of data interpretation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback-based interpretation approach where the determined wettability information is fed back into the electromagnetic property modeling process. This allows the interpretation system to account for wettability effects on electromagnetic properties, improving fluid property estimation accuracy. The feedback loop enables the system to iteratively refine its estimates by comparing measured electromagnetic properties with model predictions that incorporate wettability.
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
This approach enables more accurate determination of contact angles and wettability, improving the interpretation of electromagnetic log measurements and enhancing the estimation of fluid properties and saturation levels in hydrocarbon exploration, thereby optimizing hydrocarbon production decisions.
Implementation Method 1
Electromagnetic well-logging sensors or induction well-logging sensors use electromagnetic waves to acquire measurements
Implementation Method 2
the frequency dependence of electromagnetic properties may be used to detect the presence of interfacial polarization at interfaces between solid particles and fluids
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a method for determining a contact angle, a wettability, or both, of one or more types of solid particles within a geological formation. The method may include identifying a relative conductive of the type of solid particles and identifying a frequency range for one or more EM measurements. The method may also include determining a contact angle associated with at least one type of solid particles within the geological formation using the electromagnetic measurements corresponding to the frequency range.