MRI investigations of fractures and multiphase flow in fractured media

The new application of nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques for characterizing fractures and flow in fractured media is investigated. Specifically, a relaxation-weighted imaging technique is used for selectively highlighting either fracture or porous matrix regions. Many advantages over conventional spin-density MRI techniques for characterizing fractured media are demonstrated. Its use to speed image acquisition is also demonstrated. In addition, a multislice profile imaging technique is used to investigate imbibition and drainage displacement experiments in fractured porous media. These images demonstrate that the fractures can have profound effects on the fluid distributions in multiphase flow.