Pore Connectivity of Low-resistivity Shales in the Changning Area and Its Influence on Resistivity
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: To clarify the differences in pore connectivity in different directions within low-resistivity shale reservoirs, identify factors influencing the connectivity of low-resistivity shale reservoirs, and further discuss the impact of connectivity on rock resistivity, the marine organic-rich low-resistivity shale of the Longmaxi Formation in the Changning area of the Sichuan Basin was selected as the research object. Experiments such as X-ray diffraction mineral composition analysis and spontaneous imbibition were conducted to investigate the differences in pore connectivity of low-resistivity shale. The results indicate that the overall pore connectivity of low-resistivity shale is poor, with better connectivity parallel to the bedding direction than perpendicular to it. Different mineral contents have varying controlling effects on inorganic pore connectivity, with clay minerals playing a significant role in controlling spontaneous imbibition. Organic matter content and maturity have different effects on organic pore connectivity. Higher organic matter content corresponds to better connectivity of organic pores. When maturity is below 3.0%, higher maturity favors improved connectivity, while beyond this threshold, it adversely affects connectivity. Both inorganic and organic pore connectivity exhibit a strong negative correlation with shale resistivity, suggesting that formation water in shale pores can form effective conductive pathways. Formation water content plays a crucial role in controlling resistivity, which is of great significance for further research on the causes of low resistivity in this region.
Source: Science Discovery
Authors: Ruihua Chen, Zhenxue Jiang, Xing Liang
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanics of Materials
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7160830378