Formation and Distribution of Different Pore Types in the Lacustrine Calcareous Shale: Insights from XRD, FE-SEM, and Low-Pressure Nitrogen Adsorption Analyses
Danish Khan, Longwei Qiu, Chao Liang, Kamran Mirza, Muhammad Kashif, Baoliang Yang, Kouassi Louis Kra, Yuzhe Wang, Xin Li
Abstract
/g), respectively. The shape of the pores varies from slit-like to narrow slit. Different minerals develop different types of pores with various sizes extending from micropores (<2 nm), mesopores (2-50 nm), to macropores (>50 nm). The relationship between mineral components and pore parameters indicates that the carbonate minerals act as the main contributors to the formation and distribution of different pore types in the studied shale. Pore volume and the pore specific surface area did not show a good relationship with mineral composition and TOC due to disordered pores, but pore size shows a good relationship with mineral composition and TOC of the Es3x shale. The whole pore system description showed that the mesopores and macropores are abundantly distributed and are the main contributors to the pore system in the Es3x shale. A comprehensive understanding of the formation mechanism and structural features of various sized pores in a variety of different minerals can provide a good tool for the exploration and development of shale oil reservoirs.