Analysis of Steady Multiphase Flow in Porous Media

Abstract

Steady multiphase flow in two-dimensional (2D) porous media has not been established without the continuous fluctuation in pore occupancy. Cox (2019) proves the ability of liquid to bridge a gas-filled pore throat that is narrow and deeply etched, allowing liquid and gas to flow simultaneously. In this investigation, a pore network study was done to discuss the feasibility of steady two-phase flow given the possibility of liquid bridging. Hypothetical percolating gas networks near the percolation threshold were made using Excel and MATLAB to highlight how each established phase can progress through a 2D square lattice. The percolating network describes the gas phase after it has established continuous flow through a water saturated medium. It was found that flow for both phases is easiest near the percolation threshold, where water progresses through a set of isolated clusters and gas has one major cluster that spans the entire lattice. It is predicted that liquid bridging is most problematic near or in the primary gas backbone due to lamellae mobilization. For a larger lattice, it was found that there is more distance between the primary gas backbone and the main water path. In contrast, the possibility of lamellae division occurring due to pressure differences within the lattice is highlighted.