Sampling and Characterization of Volatile Fluid Systems

In unconventional production, the bottom-hole flowing pressure is often below the saturation pressure of the reservoir fluid.  This is particularly common in Montney production where frequently the in situ fluid is saturated at initial reservoir pressure.  This leads to erroneous fluid characterization unless steps are taken to minimize the effects of multiphase flow during fluid sampling.  Indeed, in the most extreme cases, oil-bearing assets have been characterized as gas condensate systems wherein liquids in place have been seriously under-estimated.

This presentation reviews sampling, laboratory, and characterization protocols that help to improve the accuracy of asset monetization.  Some tools for mapping in situ liquids across pools and fields are also reviewed.