Insights into Heterogeneity and Representative Elementary Volume of Vuggy Dolostones

Carbonate reservoirs commonly have significant heterogeneity and complex pore systems due to the multi-scale characteristic. Therefore, it is quite challenging predict petrophysical properties of such based on restricted experimental data. In order study size representative elementary volume (REV) vuggy dolostones, a total 26 samples with sizes ranging from micrometers centimeters were collected Cambrian Xiaoerbulake Formation at Kalping uplift in Tarim Basin northwestern China. terms distribution contribution pores porosity obtained by medical computed tomography testing, four types (Types I–IV) identified. The carbonate was further quantitatively evaluated calculating parameters structure, heterogeneity, cyclicity. results indicate that different yield variable porosities, structures, heterogeneity. relatively higher Type-II Type-IV compared those Type-I Type-III. It caused well-developed large vugs former two samples, which increase reduce Furthermore, REV calculated deriving coefficient variation. Nine twenty-six reach within traditional core plugs, indicates dolostones are much larger than plugs. Finally, this affected diverse factors. can be effectively predicted new model established relationship between quantitative parameters. correlated reaches 0.9320. give more insights into accurately evaluating reservoirs.