Geochemistry
Geochemistry analyses are largely used in unconventional plays such as the Montney and Duvernay, especially in the exploration and appraisal stage. XRD, XRF and FTIR analysis provide quantitative analysis of drill cuttings and core. Geochemical well logs are utilized in:
- Exploratory investigations
- Regional framework studies
- Drilling and completions optimization
- Field and reservoir evaluation, development and management
XRF Analysis
XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) analysis is deployed in the field during the drilling process to provide near-real-time elemental analysis of the drilled strata. Results are interpreted, and lead to quantitative mineralogical determination and interpretation of geomechanical parameters (brittleness and ductility indicators such as Poisson’s Ratio and Young’s Modulus). The geomechanical mapping of the well can then be used to plan frac stage placement in the most efficient manner. Time is saved and completion costs can decrease when frac stages are placed in optimal position or spacing.
XRD Analysis
Analysis of relative elemental abundances creates a quantifiable basis for understanding the mineralogy, provenance, anoxia, depositional environment, and diagenetic history of the formation being studied. Measurements are conducted on both drill cuttings and cores. At Chinook, we utilise the advanced Brucker D8 Discover. The combination of XRF and XRD technologies blend the high throughput of the XRF setup with the advanced mineralogical determinations of the XRD powder diffraction platform.
Hyperspectral analysis
Short-Wave Infra-Red spectroscopy is a fast method of identifying compounds based on absorption and transmission of infrared radiation.
Chinook works with Hyperspectral Intelligence’s geoLOGr rapid scanning technology to log core and cuttings. High density data in the visible and IR spectrum is collected automatically from core, along with high resolution photography. Cloud based calculations and algorithms are used to identify mineralogy, alterations, organic compounds, TOC and maturity and other data derived from spectral analysis.
The method benefits from high analysis speed, high data density and high resolution imaging.
Mud Gas Sampling
Mud gas is measured while drilling with gas detectors:
- Infrared (total gas, dual curve or hydrocarbon components up to C5)
- Hotwire (total gas or chromatography determining hydrocarbon components up to C8)
- Mass spectrometer (hydrocarbon components up to C10, other gases)
Gas samples are collected and preserved in Iso-tubes and the analysed in laboratories. Isotopes and detailed component breakdown lead to precise fingerprinting of reservoirs.
