PNRPU Patents Technology for High-Precision 3D Copies of Oil Core Samples
The approach could improve the quality of reservoir studies conducted before drilling begins.
Researchers at Perm National Research Polytechnic University (PNRPU) have patented a technology for 3D printing oil reservoir core samples. Using computer modeling and specialized printing techniques, the method produces replicas that reproduce the structure of natural core samples with 95% accuracy.
According to the researchers, the technology addresses one of the oil industry's longstanding challenges. Before drilling starts, extracted core samples must undergo numerous laboratory tests. However, each test alters the sample's internal structure, making it unsuitable for further analysis.
The PNRPU team developed a way to carry out an unlimited number of tests by producing identical replicas of the same core sample. One copy can be used for water injection experiments, another for gas injection, and a third for evaluating expensive polymers used to enhance oil recovery. Because every test is performed on an identical sample, the approach also improves the consistency and quality of the research results.
