Prediction of vertical permeability and reservoir anisotropy using coring data

Abstract

Abstract Most reservoirs have different degrees of permeability anisotropy. Optimization of recovery is crucially dependent on the reservoir quality and anisotropy. The ratio of vertical and horizontal permeability is important when reservoir anisotropy (K v/K h) and heterogeneity cannot be neglected. Therefore, an accurate knowledge of vertical and lateral permeability distribution is essential for better reservoir characterization. This work uses routine core data for analysis to develop new correlations and characterization of a sandstone reservoir under development. The two main goals of this study are to use core data to (1) develop correlations capable of predicting vertical permeability from horizontal permeability or mean hydraulic radius and (2) develop another correlation capable of predicting the permeability anisotropy ratio (K v/K h) using effective porosity data. To accomplish the objectives of this project, various petrophysical properties were experimentally measured for 112 core samples extracted from an actual sandstone reservoir. The measurements included vertical permeability, horizontal permeability, effective porosity and saturations of oil and water. Applications of the developed results of this study help enhancing the prediction of vertical permeability, improving reservoir characterization and providing better simulation studies.

Keywords

• Vertical permeability
• Anisotropic reservoir
• Core data
• Sandstones