The impact of sub-resolution porosity on numerical simulations of multiphase flow

Sub-resolution porosity (SRP) is a ubiquitous, yet often ignored, feature in Digital Rock Physics. It embodies the trade-off between image resolution and field-of-view, it direct result of choosing an imaging that larger than smallest pores heterogeneous rock sample. In this study, we investigate impacts SRP on multiphase flow porous rocks. To do so, use our newly developed Multiphase Micro-Continuum model to perform first-of-a-kind numerical simulations two-phase samples containing SRP. We show properties (porosity, permeability, wettability) can impact predicted absolute permeabilities, fluid breakthrough times, residual saturations, relative permeabilities by factors 2, 1.5, 3, 20, respectively. particular, results reveal function as persistent connector preventing formation isolated wetting domains during drainage, thus dramatically increasing both fluids at low saturations. Overall, study confirms previous evidence within cannot be disregarded without incurring significant errors predictions or experimental analyses media.