Evaluation of the reservoir permeability of anthracite coals by geophysical logging data

Permeability is one of the most significant reservoir parameters. It is commonly obtained by experiment, history simulation, injection/falloff well test and geophysical logging. Among these, geophysical logging remains as the most economic and efficient technique in evaluating coal permeability in the vicinity of an open-hole. In this paper, geophysical logging data are used to evaluate the coal reservoir permeability for the No. 3 coal seam in the southern Qinshui Basin (Fanzhuang and Zhengzhuang coal zones). Ideally coal reservoirs consist of coal matrix and fracture networks that can be represented by a model called a collection of sheets. Based on the model, coal reservoir permeability can be quantitatively calculated using the theoretical formula of kf = 8.50 × 10− 4 w2φf, in which fracture width (w) and fracture porosity (φf) were obtained by dual laterolog and density logging data, respectively. Calculative results show that coal reservoir permeability ranged from 0.017 mD to 0.617 mD for the Fanzhuang coal zone and from 0.047 mD to 1.337 mD for the Zhengzhuang coal zone. The permeability decreases with coal burial depth, reflecting variations in penetration capability of coal reservoirs at varying depths. Comparing results with those from injection/falloff well tests, however, shows that the model-calculated permeability is slightly higher. This is expected because the model did not include the influence from coal anisotropy.

► We consider anthracitic coal reservoirs as a model called a collection of sheets ideally.
► Coal reservoir permeability is calculated quantitatively by combining the model with geophysical logging data.
► Model-calculated values may be slightly higher than those obtained from injection/falloff well tests.
► The cementation index of coals influences coal permeability and dual laterolog response.