Estimation of Fracture-Matrix Transport Properties from Saturation Profiles Using a Multivariate Automatic History Matching Method

This study focuses on the development and implementation of a numerical model of multiphase flow in a fractured core sample by describing the capillary pressure-relative permeability characteristics. An automated history matching approach is proposed to determine relative permeability and capillary pressure curves simultaneously for both matrix and fracture consistent with a core flood reservoir model performance, which relies on a commercial reservoir simulator coupled with an optimization protocol. The results indicate that the proposed approach successfully predicts relative permeability and capillary pressure curves of a fractured core sample and provides a foundation for field-scale history matching with simultaneous estimation of transport properties.