A New Anelasticity Model for Wave Propagation in Partially Saturated Rocks

Abstract

Elastic wave propagation in partially saturated reservoir rocks induces fluid flow in multi-scale pore spaces, leading to wave anelasticity (velocity dispersion and attenuation). The propagation characteristics cannot be described by a single-scale flow-induced dissipation mechanism. To overcome this problem, we combine the White patchy-saturation theory and the squirt flow model to obtain a new anelasticity theory for wave propagation. We consider a tight sandstone Qingyang area, Ordos Basin, and perform ultrasonic measurements at partial saturation and different confining pressures, where the rock properties are obtained at full-gas saturation. The comparison between the experimental data and the theoretical results yields a fairly good agreement, indicating the efficacy of the new theory.

Advanced Progress of the Geo-Energy Technology in China

“…The propagation characteristics cannot be described by a single scale flow-induced dissipation mechanism. To overcome this problem, Wu et al (2021) [10] combined the White patchy saturation theory and the squirt flow model to obtain a new anelasticity theory for wave propagation. This study examined a small sandstone-rich area in Qingyang, Ordos Basin, and involved performing ultrasonic measurements at partial saturation and different confining pressures; the properties of the rocks were obtained at full gas saturation.…”