Mechanical stratigraphy and sonic log relationships using the Proceq Bambino in the Niobrara Formation, Denver Basin

The Proceq Bambino is a hand-held rebound hammer that can measure brittleness through non-destructive testing and increase the resolution, accuracy, and confidence in geomechanical estimations. The Bambino gives readings in Leeb Hardness (HLD). HLD measurements are defined as the ratio of rebound velocity to impact velocity. Preliminary data was taken from the Niobrara Formation in a Denver Basin core to demonstrate the repeatability, precision, and non-destructiveness of the Bambino. A relationship between HLD values and geomechanical properties such as unconfined compressive strength, Young's modulus, and Poisson's ratio was found after conducting Bambino testing. These relationships, coupled with the non-destructive, high-resolution data collection methods of the Bambino, made the Bambino a useful tool in geomechanical characterization of the Niobrara Formation. Four cores were tested with the Bambino, and high resolution mechanical stratigraphic profile was made for one core with using core plug data. Cores were tested on a 6- to 12-in sampling interval to better match the resolution of the sonic logs. A relationship between Bambino testing results and sonic log responses were established for all four cores. Although this relationship varied across the study area, the sonic log-Bambino relationship was typically higher in chalks than marls, and x-ray fluorescence and x-ray diffraction data from one core shows that higher clay content heavily influences sonic log response within marls. Sonic log data in the study area has also been related to initial and first year hydrocarbon production values to show the importance of geomechanical properties in unconventional reservoirs.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science (M.S.)

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Geology and Geological Engineering

Grantor dc:publisher

Colorado School of Mines. Arthur Lakes Library

Year dc:date.issued

2015

Author dc:creator

• Murray, Christopher Devin

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Sonnenberg, Stephen A.
• Humphrey, John D.

Committee member dc:contributor.committeemember

• Cumella, Steve

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright of the original work is retained by the author.

Language dc:language.iso

eng, English

Identifier

T 7821

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.mines.edu:11124/20300