ISSN:
1573-8868
Keywords:
permeability
;
electrical conductivity
;
porosity
;
microstructure
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
,
Mathematics
Notes:
Abstract Two simplified microstructural models that account for permeability and conductivity of low-porosity rocks are compared. Both models result from statistics and percolation theory. The first model assumes that transport results from the connection of 1D objects or “pipes”; the second model assumes that transport results from the connection of 2D objects or “cracks.” In both cases, statistical methods permit calculation of permeability k and conductivity σ, which are dependent on three independent microvariables: average pipe (crack) length, average pipe radius (crack aperture), and average pipe (crack) spacing. The degree of connection is one aspect of percolation theory. Results show that use of the mathematical concept of percolation and use of the rock physics concept of tortuosity are equivalent. Percolation is used to discuss k and σ near the threshold where these parameters vanish. Relations between bulk parameters (permeability, conductivity, porosity) are calculated and discussed in terms of microvariables.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00897237
Permalink
