A Visual-Learning Project to Enhance the Understanding of Petrophysical Properties Using Pore-Scale Simulation

This paper aims to showcase a visual-learning project to enhance the understanding of petrophysical concepts through the use of pore-scale flow simulation. Open-source Field Operation and Manipulation (OpenFOAM) is used to simulate fluid flow through six unique pore structures and postprocessing of numerical results was conducted using Paraview. The images and data of each flow sequence (drainage and imbibition) is captured and available for analysis. In this paper, we discuss how each parameter is used and calculated. The data to calculate are porosity, fluid saturation, throat size distribution, capillary pressure, and relative permeability. The data of this project is open access and can be adopted by any institution. The project utilizes six cases where it enables visual demonstrations of both drainage and imbibition and highlights the effects of pore geometry over each of these processes. The students use open-access image analysis software to analyze the image output from the simulation data and calculate the properties above. Providing students with strong visual cues to otherwise abstract multiphase fluid processes occurring within hydrocarbon reservoirs strongly enhances their learning process. The project provides a unique learning experience to enhance the understanding of petrophysical concepts. The visual elements of this project make the understanding of the microscopic processes much simpler and more engaging. All the data associated with this project will be open access.