New England Research, Inc.

Rock Mechanics and Physical Properties Measurements
Laboratory Systems • Consulting

AutoScan Probes

The AutoScan platform includes interchangeable quick-connect probes that measure gas permeability, resistivity, ultrasonic compressional/shear wave velocities, composition (FTIR), mechanical strength, and elastic stiffness. All property measurements are spatially correlated and represent near-surface data.

This spatially correlated data allows the user to integrate all property scans and describe the data in the context of visible mineralogical and structural core properties. AutoScan data can be used for petrophysical rock typing, plug selection, and the determination of upscaled reservoir model parameters. 

Resistivity
The resistivity probe measures variations in complex electrical impedance. The probe is a true four electrode frequency-dependent device, designed to be operated submerged in a liquid bath. In addition to resistivity, the measurement is sensitive to mineralogy.

Velocity and Permeability
Velocity and permeability measurements are fully integrated into a single probe so that measurements can be made sequentially. The velocity probe measures ultrasonic compressional/shear wave velocities. The probe is directional and can be configured in orthogonal orientations to determine elastic anisotropy variations. The permeability probe, co-located with the velocity probe, measures gas permeability using a steady-state gas injection technique.

Composition (FTIR)
The addition of an FTIR probe provides a measurement sensitive to mineralogic composition. The spectrometer is configured as a non-contacting probe that measures mid-infrared surface reflectance within a 3 mm (.12 in) spot size. The probe includes real time spectral data viewing and support software, an LCD video camera, and data acquisition software.

Mechanical Hardness
The impulse hammer probe measures elastic stiffness. The point measurements are sensitive to variations in inelastic stiffness and strength and can be configured to produce a strength index. Unlike competing methods, such as scratch tests, this probe is (i) a non-destructive measurement (millimeter scale indentation only) and (ii) quantitative.

Digital Camera
An automated digital camera for photo-documentation of core is mounted on the AutoScan gantry and can be used during the measurement workflow to document the core surface.

 

Probes Under Development

  • Raman Spectroscopy
  • XRF

New England Research, Inc.
331 Olcott Drive | White River Junction, VT 05001 |  +1 802.296.2401