Tomographic imaging of three-phase flow experiments

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Abstract
The medical x-ray computerized tomography (CT) scanner has proved to be a useful tool for studies of fluid flow in porous media, with particular applications in reservoir engineering and enhanced oil recovery. This paper explains how CT is used to measure the volume fraction of pore space occupied by up to three discrete phases, such as oil, water, and gas. The image processing system, x-ray transparent high-pressure flow equipment, choice of fluid dopants, and x-ray energies are described for scanning of core flood experiments. Examples are given of tertiary miscible carbon dioxide displacements in Berea sandstone.