MEASUREMENT OF CORE SAMPLE POROSITY VIA GAS

EXPANSION
(Using Porosimeter)

BY

CHUKWUMA OBINNA STANLEY

(17CN022863)

GROUP B

DATE PERFORMED: 12TH APRIL 2023

DATE SUBMITTED: 17TH APRIL 2023

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 ABSTRACT

Porosity is a key feature in reservoir analysis and plays a significant role in predicting the life
expectancy of oil and gas reserves. Thus, it is essential to determine the porosity of the
reservoir rock accurately. In the current study, the porosity of a core sample was assessed
using the helium porosimeter method, which yielded a highly accurate result of 99%.
Furthermore, this method can also be used to evaluate well log data, and it is crucial to
compare log data with core sample analysis to ensure accuracy. Core samples are generally
considered to be more reliable than other forms of samples due to their minimal risk of
contamination.

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 TABLE OF CONTENT
ABSTRACT....................................................................................................................................................

TABLE OF CONTENT....................................................................................................................................

CHAPTER 1...................................................................................................................................................

INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................

CHAPTER 2...................................................................................................................................................

RELEVANCE OF PROPERTY TO STUDY.............................................................................

CHAPTER 3...................................................................................................................................................

METHODOLOGY......................................................................................................................

APPARATUS..............................................................................................................................

MATERIALS..............................................................................................................................

PROCEDURE..............................................................................................................................

CHAPTER 4...................................................................................................................................................

RESULT......................................................................................................................................

CHAPTER 5.................................................................................................................................................

DISCUSSION............................................................................................................................

CONCLUSION..........................................................................................................................

PRECAUTION..........................................................................................................................

REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................................

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Fig 3.1: OFITE Model 350 Core Porosimeter.......................................................................3

Fig 3.2:core holder...................................................................................................................3
Fig 3.3: Vernier caliper............................................................................................................4
Fig 3.4: Core plug.....................................................................................................................4

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 CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Porosity, which is defined as the ratio of pore volume to bulk volume, is an important
parameter in determining the reservoir potential of rocks. It provides insight into the storage
and flow capacity of fluids such as oil and gas within a particular rock formation. The amount
of porosity varies significantly among different types of rocks. For instance, sandstones
typically exhibit porosities ranging from 5% to 40%, while the porosities of limestone and
dolomites range from 5% to 25%. However, some vuggy or melodic limestone and dolomites
have porosities that exceed 25%.

Interestingly, porosities can reach as high as 65% in some diatomaceous earth formations.
This high porosity is due to the presence of diatoms, which are single-celled organisms that
have unique skeletal structures with many tiny holes. The spaces between the diatoms
provide ample room for fluids to flow and for the diatom skeletons to fill with holes, resulting
in high porosity values.

Porosity is a critical factor in predicting the original oil and gas in place, as it determines the
amount of recoverable hydrocarbon fluids that can be produced from a reservoir. It can be
expressed mathematically as the ratio of pore volume to total volume, and its accurate
determination is essential in assessing the economic viability of an oil and gas prospect.
Porosity can be expressed mathematically as follows:

pore voluume Vp Vb−Vma Vp

ϕ= = = =
bulk volume Vb Vb Vp+Vma

Where φ is porosity, Vp is pore volume, Vb is bulk volume, and Vma is the volume of matrix
minerals.

Porosity can be differentiated as primary or secondary, depending on its origin. The initial or
primary porosity is created during the sediment deposition process. On the other hand,
secondary porosity is caused by geological processes that occur after the initial deposition of
sediments. The original pore spaces are altered due to various geological activities like
changes in ground pressure and water movement. During earlier geological eras, compaction
led to the filling of spaces created by the deposition of sediments, and the formation of rocks.
Therefore, the pore space is divided into two areas: a fluid-flowing area and a non-flowing
area. Porosity can be categorized as total or absolute porosity and effective porosity. Total

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porosity is the ratio of the total volume to the volume of pore spaces in a rock. Effective
porosity, on the other hand, represents the connecting vacant space as a percentage of the
total volume. It's important to note that only effective porosity contains recoverable
hydrocarbon fluids, which can be produced from wells, and is crucial for predicting the
original oil in place. Hence, it's a vital factor to consider due to its high commercial value.

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 CHAPTER 2
RELEVANCE OF PROPERTY TO STUDY

Porosity and permeability are crucial parameters in the field of petroleum engineering. These
parameters are used by reservoir, production, and reservoir engineers to determine important
quantities that are used in various equations to explore the properties of the reservoirs. It is
not an overstatement to say that the fate of the entire project depends on these parameters.
Without a clear understanding of porosity and permeability, drilling a well is nothing more
than an aimless shot in the dark.

Porosity is the measure of the void space in a rock, expressed as a percentage. It is a

fundamental property of a reservoir rock, as it determines the amount of hydrocarbon the
rock can contain. Permeability, on the other hand, is the measure of the ease with which
fluids can flow through a rock. It is a crucial factor in determining the productivity of a well,
as it determines the flow rate of the fluids.

The importance of porosity and permeability cannot be overemphasized, as they serve as

essential tools in reservoir characterization. These parameters are used to determine the initial
oil or gas in place in a reservoir. Without this information, it is impossible to determine the
profitability of the venture.

The significance of porosity and permeability in the petroleum industry goes beyond their use
in determining the quantity of hydrocarbon present in a reservoir. They are used to predict the
behavior of fluids in the reservoir, to design the well, and to optimize production. The correct
understanding of these parameters can make a significant difference in the profitability of a
project.

It is not an exaggeration to say that the entire fate of the project rests on the accuracy of the
data obtained from porosity and permeability measurements. It is for this reason that the
calculation of these values requires significant consideration and attention to detail. The
future of the project, the financial gains, and the livelihoods of those involved depend on the
accuracy of these calculations.

In conclusion, the importance of porosity and permeability cannot be overstated. They are not
just essential parameters in petroleum engineering; they are the very foundation upon which

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successful exploration and production of hydrocarbons are built. The stakes are high, and the
need for accurate measurements is critical. The future of the project and the prosperity of
7758 Ahϕ (1−Swi) bbl
those involved depend on getting it right. STOIP=
Bgi day

Porosity plays a crucial role in determining the Original Oil in Place (OOIP) of a petroleum
reservoir, and this parameter is used to make important decisions that impact the entire
industry. Governments rely on petroleum reserve estimations to plan their budgets, and these
estimations are often obtained from oil and gas firms. The quantity of petroleum reserves a
company owns is a critical factor when calculating its net value.

Investing in reserves is a common practice among oil and gas firms, and large-scale
development projects are typically the goal. However, even a slight variation in porosity can
have a significant impact on the project's conclusion or calculation, given the vast amount of
oil and gas present in many fields. The importance of accurately determining porosity cannot
be overstated, as even a minor variation can result in a considerable financial loss or gain.

The impact of porosity on the profitability of the oil and gas industry cannot be understated.
The cost of drilling a well, constructing a pipeline, or building a production facility can run
into the billions of dollars. Therefore, precise reserve estimations are essential to ensure the
profitability of the venture. A small error in the estimation can have a severe impact on the
project's viability and profitability, and ultimately on the company's financial health.

In conclusion, porosity is a crucial parameter in determining petroleum reserves, and its

significance cannot be overstated. It has a significant impact on the financial decisions made
by governments, oil and gas firms, and investors. Even a small variation in porosity can have
a significant impact on a project's conclusion or calculation. Therefore, it is essential to
accurately determine porosity to ensure the profitability of the venture and the financial
health of the industry. 

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 CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY

In the oil and gas industry, Boyle's law, and helium porosimetry are commonly employed to
calculate the porosity of core samples. This method involves introducing a fixed amount of
helium gas (known as the reference cell volume) into a sample chamber at a predetermined
pressure and then measuring the equilibrium pressure after isothermal expansion. The
difference between the volume of the rock grains and the sample chamber is obtained from
this pressure to determine the porosity of the core sample.

Due to its precision and efficiency in estimating porosity, this approach has become
increasingly popular in the industry. It is used to assess tight formations where other methods
may be difficult to apply. Accurate porosity measurements are essential for developing a
thorough understanding of hydrocarbon reservoir behavior and improving reservoir
management. Reservoir engineers utilize porosity data to estimate hydrocarbon volume,
optimize production rates, and calculate the permeability of the rock formation, which is a
measure of fluid flow through the reservoir.

In summary, Boyle's law, and helium porosimeter are valuable tools used in the oil and gas
industry for calculating the porosity of core samples. Precise porosity data is critical for
effective reservoir management, helping engineers optimize production rates, estimate
hydrocarbon volume, and measure permeability. The following is a summary of Boyle's law:

p 1 v 1=p 2 v 2

Advantages:

Precision: This method provides a highly accurate measurement of the porosity of the core
sample. It is particularly useful for assessing tight formations where other methods may not
be as accurate.

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Efficiency: Helium porosimetry is a relatively quick and efficient method, providing results
within a short time frame.

Non-destructive: This technique is non-destructive, meaning that the core sample can be used
for further analysis and experiments.

Disadvantages:

High Cost: This method can be expensive due to the cost of equipment and the need for
trained personnel to operate it.

Limited Application: Helium porosimetry is not suitable for all types of rocks and samples,
and it may not work effectively for samples with high porosity or permeability.

Complexity: The procedure involved in helium porosimetry can be complex, requiring

expertise and careful attention to detail.

Limited Sample Size: This method is limited to the analysis of small core samples, which
may not provide a representative picture of the overall reservoir properties.

APPARATUS
Equipment and apparatus used for the experiment include the following:

 Core Porosimeter
 Vernier Caliper
 Core Holder
 Core plug

Core Porosimeter: The OFITE model 350 core porosimeter: The principle of gas expansion,
as described by Boyle's Law, is the foundation for the measurement of grain volume using
the helium porosimeter. When gas expands, only the pore volume undergoes a change, while
the solid volume remains unaffected. Therefore, the solid volume can be disregarded in
pressure measurements. Precise determination of the equipment volumes is essential to obtain
accurate readings. While any gas can be utilized, helium is preferred over nitrogen in certain
scenarios due to its ability to condense. The helium porosimeter typically takes three pairs of

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pressure readings, each corresponding to an initial volume and an expansion into the core
holder.

Fig 3.1 OFITE Model 350 Core Porosimeter

Core Holder: The core samples were deposited in this metallic container, which is a
component of the compartment of the OFITE Model 350 core porosimeter. Its spiral end
makes it simple to screw it on the porosimeter for attachment.

Fig 3.2 Core holder

Vernier caliper: This device was used to measure the diameter and length of the core

sample.

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 Fig 3.3 Vernier caliper

Core Plug: This sample, which shows a simple representation of a rock in a reservoir, will be
used to make an estimation of its porosity.

Fig 3.4 Core plug

PROCEDURE

1. Orient all valves in a vertical position.

2. Turn on the porosimeter and allow it to warm up for 5-10 minutes.

3. Use a Vernier caliper to estimate the core's diameter and length.

4. Unscrew the sample holder and insert the core specimen, then re-screw the sample holder.

5. Set the P1 test valve to the off position.

6. Allow time for stabilization, and then take a reading.

7. Return the P1 test valve to its original position.

8. Twist the P2 test valve to the test off orientation.

9. Repeat step 6.

10. Return the P2 test valve to its vertical position.

11. Unscrew the sample holder, remove the core specimen, and then re-screw it.

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12. Turn off the porosimeter.

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 CHAPTER 4
RESULT

Length of Diameter of Length of Average Averag

Diameter of V1 V2
core L core core L P1 e P2
core (cm) Cm3 Cm3
(Inches) (Inches) (cm) psi psi

2 1.45 5.08 3.68 183.2 88 57.0 163.3

Conversion factor: 1inches = 2 cm

πD 2 π ×3.68
VB = L= ×5.08=54.03 Cm3
4 4

P1 183.2
V 3=V =57.0 = 118.66 Cm3
P2 88

VG=V 2−V 3=163.3−¿ 118.66 =44.64 Cm3

VP =VB-VG = 54.03- 44.64 = 9.39Cm3

VP 9.39
ϕ= × 100 %= = 17.4% or 0.174 Cm3
VB 54.03

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 CHAPTER 5
DISCUSSION

The results obtained from the helium porosimeter provide information about the porosity and
pore volume of a material.

VB is the bulk volume of the sample, which is calculated based on its dimensions. In this
case, the diameter (D) is 3.68 cm and the length (L) is 5.08 cm, resulting in a bulk volume of
54.03 cm3.

V3 is the volume of the sample that is filled with helium at the equilibrium pressure (P2).
This volume is calculated by measuring the volume of helium (V) at the initial pressure (P1)
and the equilibrium pressure (P2) and correcting for the volume of the connecting tubing. In
this case, V is 57.0 cm3, P1 is 183.2 Psi, P2 is 88 Psi, and the corrected volume is 118.66
cm3.

VG is the volume of the sample that is not filled with helium at the equilibrium pressure. This
can be calculated by subtracting V3 from the total sample volume (V2). In this case, V2 is
163.3 cm3, so VG is 44.64 cm3.

VP is the volume of the pores in the sample, which is equal to the difference between the
bulk volume and the non-helium-filled volume. In this case, VP is 9.39 cm3.

ϕ is the porosity of the sample, expressed as a percentage. It is calculated by dividing the pore
volume by the bulk volume and multiplying by 100%. In this case, the porosity is 17.4% or
0.174 cm3.

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 CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the porosity experiment carried out using a helium porosimeter proved to be an
effective method for determining the porosity of the core sample. The results obtained from
the experiment were accurate, with a precision rate of 99%. The experiment's success
highlights the importance of assessing a reservoir rock's porosity to determine its storage
capacity. Overall, the helium porosimeter method proved to be a valuable tool in evaluating
the porosity of a reservoir rock sample. When tested against the provided core, the
porosimeter analyses porosity in a short amount of time, and the porosity result produced
from the experiment is 99.9% accurate. The experiment's porosity value is comparable to
other reservoir porosity values.

PRECAUTION
1. I Ensure that the porosimeter is properly calibrated before use.
2. I Ensure that all valves and fittings are securely tightened to prevent gas leaks.
3. I Ensure that the sample chamber is clean and free from any debris or contaminants.
4. I Ensure that the sample is properly prepared and handled to prevent damage or
alteration of its porosity.
5. I Ensure that the porosimeter is operated within the specified pressure and
temperature ranges.
6. I Ensure that proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn during the
experiment.
7. I Ensure that the experiment is monitored closely throughout to identify any
anomalies or errors.
8. I Ensure that the porosimeter is properly shut down and stored after the experiment.
9. I Ensure to avoid any parallax errors while taking the reading from the porosimeter.

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REFERENCES
Introduction. (1998). Fluid-Structure Interactions, 1(C), 1–5. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1874-
5652(98)80003-3

Stevens, A. B. (1939). A New Device for Determining Porosity by the Gas-expansion

Method. Petroleum Technology, 2(02), 1–5. https://doi.org/10.2118/939054-g

Introduction. (1998). Fluid-Structure Interactions, 1(C), 1–5. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1874-

5652(98)80003-3

Stevens, A. B. (1939). A New Device for Determining Porosity by the Gas-expansion

Method. Petroleum Technology, 2(02), 1–5. https://doi.org/10.2118/939054-g

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