Advanced reservoir quality services (ARQS) specializing in mineralogical and lithological analysis for the oil and gas industry.
By integrating complementary geo-analytical techniques such as QEMSCAN, XRD, FTIR, SEM, optical petrography, organic and inorganic geochemistry, our ARQS team provides detailed down-hole mineralogical and lithological information from drill cuttings, core and unknown deposits.
In particular, the application of QEMSCAN provides fully quantitative, detailed mineralogical data that is reported with textural context. This facilitates observations such as grain size, shape, sorting, cementation, clay speciation, abundance and type. Combined, these features assist in evaluating the reservoir quality of the interval and allow for correlation and comparison between that of adjacent wells and across the reservoir.
With the backing of our subsurface consulting division, and network of upstream analytical laboratories, mineralogical studies can be integrated with petrophysical, sedimentological or reservoir modeling studies.
ARQS analysis and interpretation
ARQS offers a range of analyses and interpretation methodologies which can be tailored to suit any work scope. By combining mineralogical and textural criteria to define lithologies, and the spatial relationship between the samples, ARQS can generate downhole plots to provide stratigraphic cross-sections for correlation with wireline logs and geophysical data. In the absence of traditional sources of data, such as in horizontal wells, through the analysis of drill cuttings ARQS can provide insight otherwise not possible.
QEMSCAN
QEMSCAN analysis uses a scanning electron microscope combined with multiple energy dispersive X-ray spectrometers to produce back-scatter electron (BSE) images and elemental composition data to identify minerals and inorganic materials. A block is made from the sample type (e.g. cuttings, core) mounted in epoxy resin. A BSE image is used to differentiate the sample from the mounting resin. The QEMSCAN utilizes a grid system over the sample to generate analysis points (pixels). Each pixel produces an elemental spectrum that identifies and quantifies elements. Elemental signatures reflect specific mineral phases that are used to generate a mineral map of each cutting or grain and subsequent total mosaic map of the entire sample. The mineral maps are used to determine the detailed mineralogy and the lithological classification of the sample.
Why SGS?
Our analytical expertise and experience enhances sedimentological, reservoir, and field production studies and provides comprehensive, high quality, integrated outputs. Backed by the global network, our labs utilize cutting edge instrumentation, rigorous training for our staff, and a portfolio of projects from around the world.
Turnaround times matter: our workflows are optimized to get you results when you need them.
For more information about how ARQS can assist you, contact your SGS representative.