Three-dimensional mixed-wet random pore-scale network modeling of two- and three-phase flow in porous media. I. Model description

We present a three-dimensional network model to simulate two- and three-phase capillary dominated processes at the pore level. The displacement mechanisms incorporated in the model are based on the physics of multiphase flow observed in micromodel experiments. All the important features of immiscible fluid flow at the pore scale, such as wetting layers, spreading layers of the intermediate-wet phase, hysteresis, and wettability alteration are implemented in the model. Wettability alteration allows any values for the advancing and receding oil-water, gas-water, and gas-oil contact angles to be assigned. Multiple phases can be present in each pore or throat (element), in wetting and spreading layers, as well as occupying the center of the pore space. In all, some 30 different generic fluid configurations for two- and three-phase flow are analyzed. Double displacement and layer formation are implemented as well as direct two-phase displacement and layer collapse events. Every element has a circular, square, or triangular cross section. A random network that represents the pore space in Berea sandstone is used in this study. The model computes relative permeabilities, saturation paths, and capillary pressures for any displacement sequence. A methodology to track a given three-phase saturation path is presented that enables us to compare predicted and measured relative permeabilities on a point-by-point basis. A robust displacement-based clustering algorithm is also presented.