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Applicability of micro-FTIR in detecting shale heterogeneity
Carley Gasaway1, Maria Mastalerz2, Fed Krause3
1Department of Geological Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, U.S.A.
Journal of Microscopy
|September 7, 2016
Summary
Organic matter connectivity in New Albany Shale decreases with maturity. Micro-Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) mapping effectively reveals shale heterogeneity and component distribution, aiding in understanding anisotropy.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Sedimentology
- Materials Science
Background:
- The New Albany Shale is a significant geological formation in the Illinois Basin.
- Understanding shale heterogeneity is crucial for resource exploration and environmental studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution, connectivity, and chemical composition of organic matter and minerals in the New Albany Shale.
- To evaluate the applicability of micro-Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) mapping for studying shale heterogeneity and anisotropy.
Main Methods:
- Micro-Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy
- ImageJ processing software
- Scanning electron microscopy with X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS)
- Analysis in planes parallel and perpendicular to bedding
Main Results:
- Organic matter connectivity is higher parallel to bedding in low-maturity samples and decreases with increasing maturity.
- Clay minerals exhibit excellent connectivity in both bedding planes.
- Carbonate minerals are generally isolated and their abundance is maturity-independent.
Conclusions:
- Micro-FTIR mapping is a powerful tool for analyzing shale heterogeneity at micro- to millimeter scales, especially when combined with SEM-EDS.
- Careful standardization of micro-FTIR mapping is essential for obtaining reliable and comparable results.
- The study provides insights into the anisotropy of component distribution, relevant for understanding porosity and permeability in organic-rich shales.
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