Impact of the Degree of Saturation on the Mechanical Behaviour of the Whitby Mudstone

Lisanne Douma, J. Dautriat, J. Sarout, D. Dewhurst, Auke Barnhoorn

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientificpeer-review

Abstract

Mudstones are of great interest in the petroleum industry, since they can act as a source rocks, reservoirs and seals. Understanding the mechanical behaviour of these clay-rich rocks is crucial for successful hydrocarbon exploration and production. This study examines the impact of water saturation on the mechanical behaviour of the Whitby Mudstone. Triaxial compression tests are performed on mudstone samples with different water saturations at effective confining pressures of 5 MPa, 15 MPa, 25 MPa, and 40 MPa. The results show that the degree of saturation significantly affects the rock strength and static elastic properties (Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio). The mechanical properties obtained from partially-saturated mudstones should be treated with care when extrapolating them to in situ conditions.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the Sixth EAGE Shale Workshop
PublisherEAGE
Number of pages5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019
EventSixth EAGE Shale Workshop - Bordeaux, France
Duration: 28 Apr 20191 May 2019
https://events.eage.org/en/2019/sixth-eage-shale-workshop

Workshop

WorkshopSixth EAGE Shale Workshop
Country/TerritoryFrance
CityBordeaux
Period28/04/191/05/19
Internet address

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