Anchoring Multi‐Scale Models to Micron‐Scale Imaging of Multiphase Flow in Rocks

Image-based pore-scale modeling is an important method to study multiphase flow in permeable rocks. However, many rocks, the pore size distribution so wide that it cannot be resolved a single pore-space image, typically acquired using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Recent multi-scale models therefore incorporate sub-voxel porosity maps, created by differential micro-CT imaging of contrast fluid pores. These maps delineate different microporous zones model, which must assigned petrophysical properties as input. The uncertainty on scale physics these heightened uncertainties representation unresolved pores, also called sub-rock typing. Here, we address this validating network model drainage experiment imaged with Estaillades limestone sample. We find map-based typing was unable match micrometer-scale experimental distributions. To investigate why, introduce novel baseline method, based 3D map capillary pressure function. By incorporating data, successfully remove most from obtaining close fit Comparison between two methods shows sample, poorly correlated behavior microporosity. introduced paper can help constrain sources reference cases, facilitating development simulations complex reservoir rocks for e.g. geological storage CO2.