Pore-Network Modeling of Flow in Shale Nanopores: Network Structure, Flow Principles, and Computational Algorithms

Pore-Network Modeling of Flow in Shale Nanopores: Network Structure, Flow Principles, and Computational Algorithms

Ronghao Cui, S Majid Hassanizadeh, Shuyu Sun

We presents a critical review of the state-of-the-art in pore-network modeling of single-phase and two-phase flow in shale nanopores. First, based on key geological features of shale rock, we analyze network topology, multiscale network, pore geometries, and network representativeness of shale pore-network models. Then, we discuss four important aspects that may influence flow principles of fluids in nanocapillaries: gas and liquid slippage, sorption and diffusion behavior, hydrocarbon thermodynamics, and the presence of water. Finally, we present pore-network modeling methods used for flow simulations in shale rock, including quasi-static and dynamic algorithms.

Earth-Science Reviews (Volume 234, November 2022, 104203)
Corresponding Author: Shuyu Sun

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