PIK-AEI-S Three-Phase Saturation X-Ray Scanner

The X-ray scanner for the measurement of three-phase saturation (liquid/liquid/gas) can determine the saturation at each point of core (2D saturation image) to visualize the process of fluid filtration and register current saturation value. The radiotransparent coreholder of composite material allows making radiography of a core sample under reservoir pressure and temperature.

To scan the sample, the X-ray source and detector are mounted on a moving platform. X-ray beam passing through the coreholder is weakened to form an image on the detector.

To measure the saturation of the core with liquid, a radio-opaque agent, e.g. KI, is added in the brine. Also it is possible to add a radio-opaque agent (iodooctane, iododecane, tetraethyl lead) in oil.

Scanning procedure includes the following stages:

• Scanning of dry sample;
• Sample is saturated with water and scanned again;
• Sample is saturated with oil and scanned for the third time. Scanning with residual water is possible if residual water percentage is known;
• After calibration, a series of control scans are performed.