Change in mechanical properties of Antrim oil shale on retorting
The decomposition of kerogen in oil shale and subsequent extraction of the decomposition products during the retorting process are known to alter the pore structure, resulting in changes in permeability, deformation and strength properties. Prediction of these changes is of fundamental importance in the design of in-situ retorting processes. This paper summarizes a comprehensive laboratory investigation on the changes in mechanical properties of Antrim oil shale on retorting at 500/sup 0/C. It was observed that kerogen plays an important role in the change of the properties on retorting. When subjected to heat, the degree of deformation, the extent of fracturing and the structural instability of the specimens appeared to be strongly dependent upon kerogen content. The values of elastic modulus, strength, and density decreased whereas maximum strain at failure increased on retorting. Significant increases in permeability and porosity also resulted from retorting. The most pronounced increase was observed in the permeability in the direction parallel to bedding which exceeded in some cases as much as 3 orders of magnitude. Microscopic observations of pore structures provided a qualitative support to data obtained in measurements of porosity and permeability.
- Research Organization:
- Michigan Technological Univ., Houghton (USA)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Fossil Energy (FE)
- OSTI ID:
- 5768101
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-790606--9
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Mechanical characteristics of Antrim shale. Interim report, April 1977--January 1978
Effects of overburden pressure on oil shale during underground retorting
Related Subjects
040401 -- Oil Shales & Tar Sands-- In Situ Methods
True & Modified
040500* -- Oil Shales & Tar Sands-- Properties & Composition
BITUMINOUS MATERIALS
CARBONACEOUS MATERIALS
CHEMICAL REACTIONS
DECOMPOSITION
ENERGY SOURCES
FOSSIL FUELS
FUELS
KEROGEN
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
OIL SHALES
PERMEABILITY
POROSITY
RETORTING