Recent Advances in Multiphase Flows Through Porous and Fractured Media

In this paper experimental and computational modeling methods for studying multiphaseflows in porous and fractured media are studied. Particular attention was given to the flows in a laboratory-scale flow cell model. It is shown that the gas-liquid flows generate fractal interfaces and the viscous and capillary fingering phenomena are discussed. Experimental data concerning the displacement of two immiscible fluids in the lattice-like flow cell are presented. The flow pattern and the residual saturation of the displaced fluid during the displacement are discussed. Numerical simulations results of the experimental flow cell are also presented. The numerical simulation results for single and multiphase flows through rock fractures are also presented. Fracture geometry studied was obtained from a series of CT scan of an actual fracture. Computational results show that the major losses occur in the regions with smallest apertures. An empirical expression for the fracture friction factor is also described. Applications to CO2 sequestration in underground brine fields depleted oil reservoir stimulation are discussed.