Probing nanopore structure and confined fluid behavior in shale matrix: A review on small-angle neutron scattering studies
Although continued growth in unconventional oil and gas production is generally projected, its long-term growth potential and sustainability have significant uncertainties. A critical problem is the low hydrocarbon recovery rates from shale and other tight formations using the horizontal well drilling and hydraulic fracturing techniques: < 10% for tight oil and ~ 20% for shale gas. Moreover, the production rate for a given well typically declines rapidly within one year. The low recoveries and declining production of shale oil and gas reservoirs are apparently related to the small porosity (a few to a few hundred nm) and low permeability (10–16–10–20 m2) of shale matrix, which make the enclosed hydrocarbon fluids difficult to access. Furthermore, to enhance the hydrocarbon recovery from shale matrix, it is essential to study its nanopore structure and confined fluid behavior.
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos National Lab. (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE; USDOE Office of Fossil Energy (FE), Oil and Natural Gas (FE-30)
- Grant/Contract Number:
- 89233218CNA000001
- OSTI ID:
- 1573995
- Report Number(s):
- LA-UR--18-26067
- Journal Information:
- International Journal of Coal Geology, Journal Name: International Journal of Coal Geology Vol. 217; ISSN 0166-5162
- Publisher:
- ElsevierCopyright Statement
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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