Pore-Scale Geostatistical Modelling of Porous Media

Supervisors: Profs O. Dubrule and M. Blunt, Earth Science and Engineering Dept

The field of pore-scale imaging and digital rock modeling is experiencing a rapid growth. This
is mostly due to the progress of Micro Computed Tomography (Micro CT) which now makes
possible the 3-D visualization of porous media at pore scale. The 3-D images can be used
as “Training Images” for MPS (Multi-Point Statistics) geostatistical techniques which then
build realistic 3-D computer models of porous media. These models are crucial for
investigating which parameters are key for characterizing single- and multiphase-flow
behaviour within a given 3-D clastic or carbonate porous medium. It is well-known that two-
point (covariance and variograms) or even multi-point statistics are not sufficient for
predicting flow behaviour. This is not surprising as we know from Poiseuille’s law that the
ratio between pressure and flow rate at microscopic scale is a complex function of the
porous medium architecture. A better understanding of the impact of pore architecture on
flow will be of fundamental scientific value and also lead to practical petroleum engineering
implications.

The PhD topic will include:

- Investigation of the latest geostatistical developments - in particular the use of

MPS - for modeling 3D pore-scale porous media from Micro CT images.
- Adopt and if necessary improve the best MPS method available.
- Investigation of methods for modelling flow within computer pore-scale models
- Adopt and if necessary improve the best method available
- Investigate which parameters of the 3-D porous media are key for controlling flow
behaviour. This will include single- and multiphase-flow in clastic and carbonate
rocks.

The outcome of the work will be a set of techniques for modelling porous media in 3-D and
predicting their flow behaviour from parameters of the 3-D models.

The above methods will make an extensive use of 3-D images generated from Imperial
College’s world-class micro-CT scan imaging facilities,They will be developed and tested
using research software available at Imperial College London. However, some significant
computer developments are likely to be required. The ideal candidate should have a
reservoir engineering background and be interested in the fields of geostatistics and image
analysis, and their application to porous media.

The successful candidate will join, and be supported by a vibrant and dynamic research
group with world-class expertise in petroleum engineering and geostatistics. He/she will
have the opportunity to develop his/her career and profile by presenting at international
conferences and publishing in high impact journals.

Entry requirements: Candidate should have a Petroleum Engineering MSc degree,

a strong mathematical background and some interest in computer modelling.
Application: if interested please contact Prof. Olivier Dubrule
(o.dubrule@imperial.ac.uk) or Prof Martin Blunt (m.blunt@imperial.ac.uk).