Imaging of Rock Pores by X-ray Computed Tomography

Three-dimensional measurements of the complex shapes of pores in porous rocks are essential for quantitative discussions of material transport in strata. X-ray computed tomography (CT) visualizes the three-dimensional distribution of X-ray linear absorption coefficients of rock samples, and is a useful non-destructive technique for measuring pore shape. Some examples of the application of X-ray CT to rock pore imaging are shown to facilitate petrophysical CT studies in Japan. The 3-dimensional pore images were obtained for sandy sediment, rhyolitic/andesitic lavas, and sandstone. Pore connectivity analysis and tortuosity estimate were demonstrated using sandstone image data.