Browsing by Author "Snyman, Dian"

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    Application of the minalyzer core scanner in sandstone reservoirs of the orange basin, South Africa for reservoir zonation
    (University of the Western Cape, 2025) Snyman, Dian
    This thesis investigates the elemental and petrophysical properties of tight sandstone reservoirs in the Orange Basin, South Africa, focussing on two wells, AC1 and AJ1. The study employs the Minalyzer Core Scanner for high- resolution X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis to characterize reservoir zonation and heterogeneity. The integration of continuous elemental data with petrophysical information from the Petroleum Agency of South Africa (PASA) provides a comprehensive approach to understanding reservoir quality and hydrocarbon potential. Key findings indicate that the sandstone reservoirs are predominantly composed of silica, with significant concentrations of potassium, calcium, and aluminium, suggesting a mixed depositional environment. Variations in elemental composition between wells AC1 and AJ1 reflect differences in sedimentary processes and diagenetic history, with well AJ1 exhibiting superior permeability and fluid flow potential. Additionally, Sr/Cu ratios are used to infer depositional environments and climate influences on sedimentation. Five distinct flow zones were identified with porosity ranging from 1.0 to 24.7%, permeability from 0.1 to 7777mD, and pore throat radius from 0.1 to 17.5 μm.