Multiscale Fractal Characterization of Hierarchical Heterogeneity in Sandstone Reservoirs
Abstract
Heterogeneities affecting reservoirs often develop at different scales. Previous studies have described these heterogeneities using different parameters depending on their size, and there is no one comprehensive method of reservoir evaluation that considers every scale. This paper introduces a multiscale fractal approach to quantify consistently the hierarchical heterogeneities of sandstone reservoirs. Materials taken from typical depositional pattern and aerial photography are used to represent three main types of sandstone reservoir: turbidite, braided, and meandering river system. Subsequent multiscale fractal dimension analysis using the Bouligand-Minkowski method characterizes well the hierarchical heterogeneity of the sandstone reservoirs. The multiscale fractal dimension provides a curve function that describes the heterogeneity at different scales. The heterogeneity of a reservoir’s internal structure decreases as the observational scale increases. The shape of a deposit’s facies is vital for quantitative determination of the sedimentation type, and thus enhanced oil recovery. Characterization of hierarchical heterogeneity by multiscale fractal dimension can assist reservoir evaluation, geological modeling, and even the design of well patterns.
- Publication:
-
Fractals
- Pub Date:
- July 2016
- DOI:
- 10.1142/S0218348X16500328
- Bibcode:
- 2016Fract..2450032L
- Keywords:
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- Multiscale Fractal;
- Hierarchical Heterogeneity;
- Bouligand–Minkowski Dimension;
- Sandstone Reservoir