Thin section scanning

The thin sections can be scanned and collected into a digital database using the GEPlan Consulting’s Plustek Opticfilm 120 scanner which allows to obtain high resolution images (4000 dpi).

The digital database contains all the information of the thin sections in order to make filters and queries based on selection. The database is also built to allow a direct access to the TS images via hyperlinks and can be modified based on the available information . The main information contained in the database are listed below:

• Well: well name and reservoir units
• Thin section: quality, size, staining
• Petrophysical data: porosity, permeability and Sw
• Geochemical data: FI, isotopes, trace elements
• Hyperlinks: link to the thin section image
• and whatever the client needs…

The database in an interactive tool that can be updated constantly as new data are acquired on existing thin section intervals or as new thin sections are made available. Moreover the archive and database and the information contained in it, can be easily exported and uploaded in other software (Petrel™, Techlog™ …) to have also these type of information available during the interpretation of other data (logs, seismic, modeling …).

GEPlan also offers the Pore Network Analysis service. High resolution thin sections images allows a detailed pore network analysis (PNIA, Figure 13). GEPlan can provide a service of automated visual porosity characterisation able to deliver detailed information on:

• The pore geometries (shapes: circularity, roundness and aspect ratio)
• The pore size distribution
• The total pore network area over the host rock (visual porosity)

The results of the PNIA are delivered in digital format so that further statistical analysis can be performed.

The PNIA are based on advanced image treatments and analysis and it is possible only on high resolution images (4000 dpi).