Petrophysics

Our Petrophysics facility provides a comprehensive analytical platform for the multi-scale characterization of rock physical properties, ranging from high-resolution grain size and shape analysis to complex fluid transport measurements. By integrating advanced acoustic emission monitoring, precise pycnometry, and multi-phase permeability testing, we enable deep insights into the structural and dynamic behavior of geological materials under diverse environmental conditions.

Particle size

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The particle size and shape analyser measures particles in dispersion by combining the methods of static light scattering (based on the Mie theory) and dynamic image analysis. By combining those two different methods, size and shape (Theoretical range 0.01 – 3500 µm) can be quantified. The shape analysis is performed by two high-speed cameras (0.5x and 10.0x magnification) which allows the statistical characterization (80.000 images) of samples even within a broad grain size distribution.

With the additional dispersion unit (300 ml), measurements can be performed in all common solvents e.g. water and ethanol. The user can expose the sample to controlled stirring conditions and ultrasonic pulses before the measurement. Dry sample mass required is grain-size dependent and between <0.1g (fine) and 2-3 g (coarse).

Velocity and acoustic emissions

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PAC: The Physical Acoustics “PCI-2” is a 2 channel Acoustic Emission recorder designed to capture high speed fracture data statistics at up to 5 MHz. They are routinely used to generate the degree (time, rate, magnitude) of cracking and fracture events analogous to field scale seismicity during uniaxial deformation experiments, and tensile experiments using brazilian disc or other indirect methods.

ASC: This Acoustic Emission recorder (Applied Seismology Consultants) can measure 12 channels of AE data simultaneously, and locate the locations of the earthquakes in quasi-real time for display and analysis at data rate of up to 30 events/second. The instrument can also be used in active mode, ‘pinging’ successive sensors to generate a dense P-wave raypath network for tomography. As well as recording the events statistics this equipment records the full waveform of the seismic event for later processing, allowing 3D event locations to be derived analogous to earthquake hypocentres. The recorder is used during uniaxial and triaxial deformation experiments to investigate the fracturing and cracking processes, due to applied stress and pore pressure, and also with reference to fluid resonances.

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This ultrasonic testing device is equipped with a DPR300 900 volt pulser/receiver coupled with a Cecchi 2 channel digital storage oscilloscope that allows the measurement of P-wave and S-wave ultrasonic velocities using the time-of-flight method. These portable units may be used on the ultrasonic testing device or deployed to other laboratory instruments as needed.

Pycnometry

Permeability

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This apparatus can be used to determine the permeability of rock plugs under hydrostatic conditions whilst accurately monitoring volumetric changes.

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2x Benchtop steady state nitrogen gas permeameters for cylindrical rock samples. These steady-state gas permeameters can be used to rapidly estimate sample plugs permeability at varying confining pressures.

One permeameter is modified and now equipped with 3 flow-meters to enable measurements at low, high and very high flow rates. The second permeameter is equipped with 3 sample vessels, allowing permeability measurements at various sizes and up to 70 MPa confining pressure.

Other field equipment