Researchers develop method to create 3D-printed replicas of rock core samples using microtomography for enhanced oil and gas research.
Scientists have successfully developed a method to create artificial replicas of rock core samples using microtomography and 3D printing technology, potentially revolutionizing the field of oil and gas research.
The breakthrough was announced by researchers from KFU’s Laboratory of In-Situ Combustion, who highlighted the challenges associated with traditional core extraction processes.
“The real expensive, technically difficult part of that is drilling the core. Due to a number of laboratory studies, the samples lose the properties required for the continuation of research, and the potential for repeat measurements is considerably reduced,” Rail Kadyrov, Senior Research Associate of the laboratory, says.
The team first got its hands on high-resolution three-dimensional images of the inside of the rocks by micro-tomography. These pictures, on the other hand, were processed to create the digital models and reformatted for 3D printing processes.
Two common printing methods were tested: FDM (molten plastic filament printing) and DLP (liquid photo polymer printing with light). The results of the study were published in the journal Scientific Visualization.
The team first got its hands on high-resolution three-dimensional images of the inside of the rocks by micro-tomography. These pictures, on the other hand, were processed to create the digital models and reformatted for 3D printing processes.
While neither technology perfectly replicates the complex pore structure at the microscopic level, they already enable the creation of multiple physical copies with similar characteristics to original samples.
The development has significant implications for the oil and gas industry. The ability to create identical replicas of standard core samples will allow for complex studies and more accurate modeling of fluid behavior within rock formations.
The replicas also show promise for educational purposes, including training students and specialists, as well as for testing and calibrating measuring equipment.
The research team is now focusing on improving the accuracy of these 3D copies through more efficient digital tomographic data processing methods. Their next goal is to transition from printing with polymers to materials that more closely resemble reservoir rocks in composition.
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This advancement represents a significant step toward more sustainable and efficient research practices in geological exploration and fossil fuel extraction.
