University of Oklahoma-led study receives best paper award from unconventional resources conference

A study led by University of Oklahoma researchers has been selected for a 2023 best paper award in the Advanced Formation Evaluation technical program theme from the Unconventional Resources Technology Conference.

The study examined how clay and kerogen, two different components within rocks, respond to nuclear magnetic resonance, or NMR, a technique used to assess the amount of fluids within rocks. Many fluids found within rocks contain hydrogen, and knowing whether and how much hydrogen is available in the subsurface is an important facet of oil and gas exploration. Researchers found that higher NMR frequencies improved data acquisition efficiency.

As a result of this study, a novel workflow combining NMR and crushed rock analysis was developed to provide more accurate measurements of fluid fractions within rocks. The technique can be critical for determining hydrocarbon concentration within the subsurface and guiding decision-making related to oil and gas projects.

“This research is an example of how our program is using the most advanced technology to move science forward,” said Son Dang, a research scientist at OU and first author of the paper.

Chandra Rai, professor and Martin G. Miller Chair in Petroleum Engineering, said the award means visibility and validation of the high-end research conducted at OU’s Integrated Core Characterization Center in the Mewbourne School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering.