X-ray Radiography and CT

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X-ray Radiography and CT

Geotek delivers X-ray radiography and computed tomography (CT) services on core samples collected for geotechnical design, geohazard assessment, oil, gas and unconventional reservoir analysis, and on plug samples. X-ray services are performed using the Geotek designed MSCL-XCT or MSCL-RXCT, which acquire high resolution (30 μm to 150 μm) X-ray radiographs and CT datasets. The Geotek X-ray CT machines will be specifically calibrated for your core samples, and will collect images on split or whole core, through plastic or metal liners, and on cores up to 1.5 m long and 5.25 inches in diameter. All X-ray data are acquired in accordance with ASTM D4452-14.

Typical Market Applications

Geotechnical

  • Visualisation of sample quality and recovery
  • Identification of fracturing, bedding, gravels or authigenic precipitates
  • Improved and informed laboratory test planning

Geohazard

  • Identification of geological features that may not be identifiable through visual core logging
  • Visualisation of bedding contacts to better plan future logging and geological testing programmes
  • Determination of relative palaeocurrent directions
  • Identification of maximum bedding angle ahead of core splitting

Oil and Gas/Unconventional

  • Determination of maximum dipping angle of beds for slabbing
  • Visualisation of bedding contacts and fracturing within the core
  • Whole core X-ray CT scanning at <150 μm
  • Rapid plug sample scanning at 30 μm to 80 μm to investigate the suitability of samples for RAL or SCAL testing

Radiograph Examples
X-ray Radiography & CT slice

2D Radiograph Deliverables

  • 16-bit grayscale tiff files at 0°, 45°, and 90°
  • Comparable and varied contrast JPEGs of each tiff file
  • Geotek X-ray viewer software to view and manipulate the contrast values of the tiff files
  • Factual report including X-ray settings
  • Slabbing orientation line marked on the liner if applicable

3D Computer Tomography Deliverables

  • Stacked 16-bit tiff file slices
  • Comparable and varied Contrast JPEGs of 0° and 90° slice through centre of the sample
  • Axial view JPEG of top and bottom of sample
  • Geotek CT viewing software
  • Factual report including X-ray settings
Dolomite Core Plug
Dolomite Core Plug
3D reconstruction of hand specimen at 28 micron resolution. Sample courtesy of the National Geological Repository, British Geological Survey
3D reconstruction of hand specimen at 28 micron resolution. Sample courtesy of the National Geological Repository, British Geological Survey

Download the EDF EN Case Study (PDF)

For further information please contact us.