Multi-Stage X-Ray Imaging Dataset of Phase Trapping in Porous Media

Area of Science:

• Earth Sciences
• Geochemistry
• Petroleum Engineering

Background:

• Subsurface CO2 sequestration is vital for mitigating atmospheric CO2.
• Experimental data on CO2 transport and pore-scale dynamics at reservoir conditions are scarce.
• Complex experimental setups hinder high-resolution measurements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a comprehensive dataset from supercritical CO2-brine core-flooding experiments.
• To provide high-resolution 3D imaging and quantitative data for subsurface CO2 storage research.
• To facilitate numerical model validation and algorithm development for image segmentation.

Main Methods:

• Supercritical CO2 (scCO2)-brine core-flooding experiments were conducted under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions.
• X-ray microcomputed tomography (µCT) was used for continuous, high-resolution (25 µm) imaging of fluid saturations.
• scCO2-equilibrated brine minimized mass-transfer effects, capturing both drainage and imbibition scenarios.

Main Results:

• A unique dataset of 3D raw and segmented X-ray images was generated, detailing fluid saturations and pore-scale dynamics.
• Quantitative metrics including fluid saturation, morphological descriptors, and phase connectivity were derived.
• Dual-quality X-ray image sets were acquired for comparative analysis and advancements in imaging techniques.

Conclusions:

• The generated dataset offers unprecedented insights into scCO2-brine interactions at the pore scale.
• This open-access data serves as a benchmark for validating numerical models and developing image analysis algorithms.
• The findings promote innovation and broader usability in subsurface gas storage research.