Pore-scale imaging of asphaltene-induced pore clogging in carbonate rocks

We propose an experimental methodology to visualize asphaltene precipitation in the pore space of rocks and assess reduction permeability. perform core flooding experiments integrated with X-ray microtomography (micro-CT). The simultaneous injection pure heptane crude oil containing induces space. degree is controlled by measurement differential pressure across sample. After precipitation, doped injected replace fluid enhance contrast between precipitated heptane. micro-CT images are segmented into three phases: void, asphaltene, rock. In experiment, we observed that which occupied 39.1% volume caused a 29-fold Furthermore, analyze spatial distribution showed tended clog larger pores. also computed flow field numerically on obtained good agreement simulated measured local velocity after was confined narrow channels This method can be applied any type porous system precipitation.