Using geologically realistic pore networks it is possible to predict relative permeability and imbibition capillary pressure using pore-scale modeling.Starting with a network representation of Berea sandstone the pore throat radii are adjusted to match mercury injection capillary pressure and pore volumes are adjusted to match the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance(NMR)response,while keeping the rank order of radii and volumes and the network topology.Then predictions of single and multiphase properties are made with no further adjustment of the model.Empirical correlations in terms of reservoir properties like permeability,porosity,rock type and wettability,are often used to estimate relative permeability in cases where experimental data are not available.However,due to the limited experimental data that have been obtained following modern SCAL measurement and interpretation procedures,it is difficult to assess whether the correlations are valid for the full range of possible reservoir conditions,especially with respect to wettability.In this paper we show how pore-scale network modeling can be used to investigate the range and limitations of empirical correlations by varying pore geometric and wettability properties commonly used in correlations.
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