Enhanced understanding of fluid flow and effective properties in three-dimensional porous rock using lattice Boltzmann simulation and image-based correlation studies

This study aims to enhance the understanding of fluid flow and effective properties in three-dimensional (3D) porous rock by combining Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) simulations with image-based correlation techniques. The effective properties analyzed include absolute porosity, effective porosity, specific surface area, coordination number, tortuosity, permeability, and average throat size. These parameters were estimated using digital rock images from various sandstone samples, preprocessed to isolate pore networks and simulate fluid flow under creeping flow conditions. The results demonstrate that effective porosity and tortuosity exhibit strong correlations with permeability, with correlation coefficients of 0.91 and −0.65, respectively. In contrast, the coordination number shows a weaker correlation, likely due to rock heterogeneity and the presence of ineffective porosity. A comparison between permeability values derived from LBM simulations and the empirical Kozeny–Carman model reveals that both methods provide representative estimates, with LBM offering a reliable alternative for analyzing complex rock structures. The permeability distribution follows a lognormal trend, influenced by the intricate geometry of pore networks. This study highlights the effectiveness of combining LBM simulations with image-based techniques for accurately characterizing fluid flow and effective properties in 3D porous rock, providing valuable insights for applications in petroleum engineering and geophysics.