Conversion of a Micro-CT Scanned Rock Fracture Into a Useful Model

2009 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dustin Crandall ◽  
Grant Bromhal ◽  
Duane H. Smith
Keyword(s):  
Rock Fracture ◽  
Fluid Motion ◽  
Natural Fracture ◽  
Fracture Aperture ◽  
Micro Ct ◽  
Parallel Plates ◽  
Micro Computed Tomography ◽  
Data Set ◽  
Physical Geometry ◽  
Flow Through

Within geologic reservoirs the flow of fluids through fractures is often orders of magnitude greater than through the surrounding, low-permeability rock. Because of the number and size of fractures in geological fields, reservoir-scale discrete-fracture simulators often model fluid motion through fractures as flow through narrow, parallel plates. In reality fractures within rock are narrow openings between two rough rock surfaces. In order to model the geometry of an actual fracture in rock, a ∼9 cm by 2.5 cm fracture within Berea sandstone was created and the aperture distribution was obtained with micro-Computed Tomography (CT) scans by Karpyn et al. [1]. The original scans had a volume-pixel (voxel) resolution of 27 by 27 by 32 microns. This data was up-scaled to voxels with 120 microns to a side to facilitate data transfer and for practicality of use. Using three separate reconstruction techniques, six different fracture meshes were created from this up-scaled data set, each with slightly different final geometries. Flow through each of these fracture meshes was evaluated using the finite-volume simulator FLUENT. While certain features of the fracture meshes, such as the shape of the fracture aperture distributions and overall volume of the void, remained similar between the different geometric reconstructions, the flow in different models was observed to vary dramatically. Rough fracture walls induced more tortuous flow paths and a higher resistance to flow. Natural fractures do vary in-situ, due to sidewall dissolution and mineral precipitation, smoothing and coarsening fracture walls respectively. Thus for our study the range of fracture properties was actually beneficial, allowing us to describe the flow through a range of fracture types. A compromise between capturing the geometric details within a domain of interest and a tractable computational mesh must always be addressed when flow through a physical geometry is modeled. The fine level of detail that is currently available from micro-CT scanning equipment can compound this problem. This study evaluates several methods of obtaining rational CFD meshes from a complex physical geometry, and discusses the benefits and disadvantages of the different procedures as they pertain to flow through a natural fracture in rock.

Modeling of Immiscible, Two-Phase Flows in a Natural Rock Fracture

2009 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dustin Crandall ◽  
Goodarz Ahmadi ◽  
Duane H. Smith
Keyword(s):  
Numerical Model ◽  
Rock Fracture ◽  
Fluid Motion ◽  
Potential Method ◽  
Immiscible Fluids ◽  
Natural Fracture ◽  
Two Phase ◽  
Fracture Geometry ◽  
Saturated Rock ◽  
Natural Rock

One potential method of geologically sequestering carbon dioxide (CO2) is to inject the gas into brine-filled, subsurface formations. Within these low-permeability rocks, fractures exist that can act as natural fluid conduits. Understanding how a less viscous fluid moves when injected into an initially saturated rock fracture is important for the prediction of CO2 transport within fractured rocks. Our study examined experimentally and numerically the motion of immiscible fluids as they were transported through models of a fracture in Berea sandstone. The natural fracture geometry was initially scanned using micro-computerized tomography (CT) at a fine volume-pixel (voxel) resolution by Karpyn et al. [1]. This CT scanned fracture was converted into a numerical mesh for two-phase flow calculations using the finite-volume solver FLUENT® and the volume-of-fluid method. Additionally, a translucent experimental model was constructed using stereolithography. The numerical model was shown to agree well with experiments for the case of a constant rate injection of air into the initially water-saturated fracture. The invading air moved intermittently, quickly invading large-aperture regions of the fracture. Relative permeability curves were developed to describe the fluid motion. These permeability curves can be used in reservoir-scale discrete fracture models for predictions of fluid motion within fractured geological formations. The numerical model was then changed to better mimic the subsurface conditions at which CO2 will move into brine saturated fractures. The different fluid properties of the modeled subsurface fluids were shown to increase the amount of volume the less-viscous invading gas would occupy while traversing the fracture.

scholarly journals Impact of Effective Normal Stress on Capillary Pressure in a Single Natural Fracture

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marina Lima ◽  
Philipp Schaedle ◽  
Daniel Vogler ◽  
Martin O. Saar ◽  
Xiang-Zhao Kong
Keyword(s):  
Normal Stress ◽  
Capillary Pressure ◽  
Stress Conditions ◽  
Natural Fracture ◽  
Co2 Injection ◽  
Fracture Aperture ◽  
Two Phase ◽  
Effective Normal Stress ◽  
Fluid Saturation ◽  
Flow Through

Abstract Multiphase fluid flow through rock fractures occurs in many reservoir applications such as geological CO2 storage, Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS), nuclear waste disposal, and oil and gas production. However, constitutional relations of capillary pressure versus fluid saturation, particularly considering the change of fracture aperture distributions under various stress conditions, are poorly understood. In this study, we use fracture geometries of naturally-fractured granodiorite cores as input for numerical simulations of two-phase brine displacement by super critical CO2 under various effective normal stress conditions. The aperture fields are first mapped via photogrammetry, and the effective normal stresses are applied by means of a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)-based convolution numerical method. Throughout the simulations, the capillary pressure is evaluated from the local aperture. Two approaches to obtain the capillary pressure are used for comparison: either directly using the Young-Laplace equation, or the van Genuchten equation fitted from capillary pressure-saturation relations generated using the pore-occupancy model. Analyses of the resulting CO2 injection patterns and the breakthrough times enable investigation of the relationships between the effective normal stress, flow channelling and aperturebased capillary pressures. The obtained results assist the evaluation of two-phase flow through fractures in the context of various subsurface applications.

Observation of the Pulp Chamber of Maxillary First Premolars: A Micro-computed Tomographic Study

2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 224-230
Author(s):  
Gozde Serindere ◽  
Ceren Aktuna Belgin ◽  
Kaan Orhan
Keyword(s):  
Root Canal ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Slice Thickness ◽  
Micro Ct ◽  
Micro Computed Tomography ◽  
Pulp Chamber ◽  
Anatomical Structures ◽  
Computed Tomographic ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Chamber Floor

Background: There are a few studies about the evaluation of maxillary first premolars internal structure with micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). The aim of this study was to assess morphological features of the pulp chamber in maxillary first premolar teeth using micro- CT. Methods: Extracted 15 maxillary first premolar teeth were selected from the patients who were in different age groups. The distance between the pulp orifices, the diameter of the pulp and the width of the pulp chamber floor were measured on the micro-CT images with the slice thickness of 13.6 µm. The number of root canal orifices and the presence of isthmus were evaluated. Results: The mean diameter of orifices was 0.73 mm on the buccal side while it was 0.61 mm on palatinal side. The mean distance between pulp orifices was 2.84 mm. The mean angle between pulp orifices was -21.53°. The mean height of pulp orifices on the buccal side was 4.32 mm while the mean height of pulp orifices on the palatinal side was 3.56 mm. The most observed shape of root canal orifices was flattened ribbon. No isthmus was found in specimens. Conclusion: Minor anatomical structures can be evaluated in more detail with micro-CT. The observation of the pulp cavity was analyzed using micro-CT.

scholarly journals Micro-Computed Tomography Analysis of Subchondral Bone Regeneration Using Osteochondral Scaffolds in an Ovine Condyle Model

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 891
Author(s):  
Taylor Flaherty ◽  
Maryam Tamaddon ◽  
Chaozong Liu
Keyword(s):  
Computed Tomography ◽  
Bone Regeneration ◽  
Subchondral Bone ◽  
Volume Ratio ◽  
Bone Volume ◽  
Osteochondral Defects ◽  
Micro Ct ◽  
Micro Computed Tomography ◽  
Trabecular Thickness ◽  
Osteochondral Scaffold

Osteochondral scaffold technology has emerged as a promising therapy for repairing osteochondral defects. Recent research suggests that seeding osteochondral scaffolds with bone marrow concentrate (BMC) may enhance tissue regeneration. To examine this hypothesis, this study examined subchondral bone regeneration in scaffolds with and without BMC. Ovine stifle condyle models were used for the in vivo study. Two scaffold systems (8 mm diameter and 10 mm thick) with and without BMC were implanted into the femoral condyle, and the tissues were retrieved after six months. The retrieved femoral condyles (with scaffold in) were examined using micro-computed tomography scans (micro-CT), and the micro-CT data were further analysed by ImageJ with respect to trabecular thickness, bone volume to total volume ratio (BV/TV) ratio, and degree of anisotropy of bone. Statistical analysis compared bone regeneration between scaffold groups and sub-set regions. These results were mostly insignificant (p < 0.05), with the exception of bone volume to total volume ratio when comparing scaffold composition and sub-set region. Additional trends in the data were observed. These results suggest that the scaffold composition and addition of BMC did not significantly affect bone regeneration in osteochondral defects after six months. However, this research provides data which may guide the development of future treatments.

scholarly journals Additive-manufactured Ti-6Al-4 V/Polyetheretherketone composite porous cage for Interbody fusion: bone growth and biocompatibility evaluation in a porcine model

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Pei-I Tsai ◽  
Meng-Huang Wu ◽  
Yen-Yao Li ◽  
Tzu-Hung Lin ◽  
Jane S. C. Tsai ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Bone Formation ◽  
Bone Growth ◽  
Lumbar Fusion ◽  
High Porosity ◽  
Ti Alloy ◽  
Micro Ct ◽  
Micro Computed Tomography ◽  
Intervertebral Fusion ◽  
Porous Ti ◽  
Peek Composite

Abstract Background We developed a porous Ti alloy/PEEK composite interbody cage by utilizing the advantages of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and titanium alloy (Ti alloy) in combination with additive manufacturing technology. Methods Porous Ti alloy/PEEK composite cages were manufactured using various controlled porosities. Anterior intervertebral lumbar fusion and posterior augmentation were performed at three vertebral levels on 20 female pigs. Each level was randomly implanted with one of the five cages that were tested: a commercialized pure PEEK cage, a Ti alloy/PEEK composite cage with nonporous Ti alloy endplates, and three composite cages with porosities of 40, 60, and 80%, respectively. Micro-computed tomography (CT), backscattered-electron SEM (BSE-SEM), and histological analyses were performed. Results Micro-CT and histological analyses revealed improved bone growth in high-porosity groups. Micro-CT and BSE-SEM demonstrated that structures with high porosities, especially 60 and 80%, facilitated more bone formation inside the implant but not outside the implant. Histological analysis also showed that bone formation was higher in Ti alloy groups than in the PEEK group. Conclusion The composite cage presents the biological advantages of Ti alloy porous endplates and the mechanical and radiographic advantages of the PEEK central core, which makes it suitable for use as a single implant for intervertebral fusion.

scholarly journals Using micro-computed tomography to reveal the anatomy of adult Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Insecta: Hemiptera, Liviidae) and how it pierces and feeds within a citrus leaf

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Javier Alba-Tercedor ◽  
Wayne B. Hunter ◽  
Ignacio Alba-Alejandre
Keyword(s):  
Computed Tomography ◽  
Significant Advance ◽  
Micro Ct ◽  
Diaphorina Citri ◽  
Ct Reconstruction ◽  
Internal Anatomy ◽  
Micro Computed Tomography ◽  
Citrus Leaf ◽  
Teaching Aids ◽  
Adult Feeding

AbstractThe Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), Diaphorina citri, is a harmful pest of citrus trees that transmits Candidatus Liberibacter spp. which causes Huanglongbing (HLB) (citrus greening disease); this is considered to be the most serious bacterial disease of citrus plants. Here we detail an anatomical study of the external and internal anatomy (excluding the reproductive system) using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). This is the first complete 3D micro-CT reconstruction of the anatomy of a psylloid insect and includes a 3D reconstruction of an adult feeding on a citrus leaf that can be used on mobile devices. Detailed rendered images and videos support first descriptions of coxal and scapus antennal glands and sexual differences in the internal anatomy (hindgut rectum, mesothoracic ganglion and brain). This represents a significant advance in our knowledge of ACP anatomy, and of psyllids in general. Together the images, videos and 3D model constitute a unique anatomical atlas and are useful tools for future research and as teaching aids.

scholarly journals Micro-CT imaging of Thiel-embalmed and iodine-stained human temporal bone for 3D modeling

2021 ◽  
Vol 50 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sebastian Halm ◽  
David Haberthür ◽  
Elisabeth Eppler ◽  
Valentin Djonov ◽  
Andreas Arnold
Keyword(s):  
Soft Tissue ◽  
Temporal Bone ◽  
Middle Ear ◽  
3D Modeling ◽  
Soft Tissues ◽  
Ct Imaging ◽  
Micro Ct ◽  
Data Set ◽  
Iodine Staining ◽  
Tissue Structures

Abstract Introduction This pilot study explores whether a human Thiel-embalmed temporal bone is suitable for generating an accurate and complete data set with micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and whether solid iodine-staining improves visualization and facilitates segmentation of middle ear structures. Methods A temporal bone was used to verify the accuracy of the imaging by first digitally measuring the stapes on the tomography images and then physically under the microscope after removal from the temporal bone. All measurements were compared with literature values. The contralateral temporal bone was used to evaluate segmentation and three-dimensional (3D) modeling after iodine staining and micro-CT scanning. Results The digital and physical stapes measurements differed by 0.01–0.17 mm or 1–19%, respectively, but correlated well with the literature values. Soft tissue structures were visible in the unstained scan. However, iodine staining increased the contrast-to-noise ratio by a factor of 3.7 on average. The 3D model depicts all ossicles and soft tissue structures in detail, including the chorda tympani, which was not visible in the unstained scan. Conclusions Micro-CT imaging of a Thiel-embalmed temporal bone accurately represented the entire anatomy. Iodine staining considerably increased the contrast of soft tissues, simplified segmentation and enabled detailed 3D modeling of the middle ear.

scholarly journals A Micro-Computed Tomography Comparison of the Porosity in Additively Fabricated CuCr1 Alloy Parts Using Virgin and Surface-Modified Powders

Materials ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (8) ◽  
pp. 1995
Author(s):  
Mirko Sinico ◽  
Suraj Dinkar Jadhav ◽  
Ann Witvrouw ◽  
Kim Vanmeensel ◽  
Wim Dewulf
Keyword(s):  
High Energy ◽  
High Energy Density ◽  
Micro Ct ◽  
Micro Computed Tomography ◽  
Powder Bed ◽  
Metallurgical Defects ◽  
Ct Analysis ◽  
Ct Data ◽  
Surface Modified ◽  
Fusion Pores

Recently, the use of novel CuCr1 surface-modified powder for reliable laser powder-bed fusion (LPBF) manufacturing has been proposed, enabling a broader LPBF processing window and longer powder storage life. Nevertheless, virgin CuCr1 powder is also LPBF processable, on the condition that a high-energy density is employed. In this work, we compare two dense specimens produced from virgin and surface-modified CuCr1 powder. Furthermore, a third sample fabricated from surface-modified powder is characterized to understand an abnormal porosity content initially detected through Archimedes testing. Utilizing high-resolution micro-CT scans, the nature of the defects present in the different samples is revealed. Pores are analyzed in terms of size, morphology and spatial distribution. The micro-CT data reveal that the virgin CuCr1 dense specimen displays keyhole pores plus pit cavities spanning multiple layer thicknesses. On the other hand, the sample fabricated with the surface-modified CuCr1 powder mainly contains small and spherical equi-distributed metallurgical defects. Finally, the CT analysis of the third specimen reveals the presence of a W contamination, favoring lack-of-fusion pores between subsequent LPBF layers. The LPBF melting mode (keyhole or conductive), the properties of the material, and the potential presence of contaminants are connected to the different porosity types and discussed.

scholarly journals Analytical Solutions of Upper Convected Maxwell Fluid with Exponential Dependence of Viscosity under the Influence of Pressure

Mathematics ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 334
Author(s):  
Constantin Fetecau ◽  
Dumitru Vieru ◽  
Tehseen Abbas ◽  
Rahmat Ellahi
Keyword(s):  
Fluid Motion ◽  
Maxwell Fluid ◽  
Newtonian Fluids ◽  
Exponential Dependence ◽  
Physical Parameters ◽  
Shear Stresses ◽  
Parallel Plates ◽  
Pressure Dependent Viscosity ◽  
Laplace Transform Technique ◽  
Dependent Viscosity

Some unsteady motions of incompressible upper-convected Maxwell (UCM) fluids with exponential dependence of viscosity on the pressure are analytically studied. The fluid motion between two infinite horizontal parallel plates is generated by the lower plate, which applies time-dependent shear stresses to the fluid. Exact expressions, in terms of standard Bessel functions, are established both for the dimensionless velocity fields and the corresponding non-trivial shear stresses using the Laplace transform technique and suitable changes of the unknown function and the spatial variable in the transform domain. They represent the first exact solutions for unsteady motions of non-Newtonian fluids with pressure-dependent viscosity. The similar solutions corresponding to the flow of the same fluids due to an exponential shear stress on the boundary as well as the solutions of ordinary UCM fluids performing the same motions are obtained as limiting cases of present results. Furthermore, known solutions for unsteady motions of the incompressible Newtonian fluids with/without pressure-dependent viscosity induced by oscillatory or constant shear stresses on the boundary are also obtained as limiting cases. Finally, the influence of physical parameters on the fluid motion is graphically illustrated and discussed. It is found that fluids with pressure-dependent viscosity flow are slower when compared to ordinary fluids.

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