Computed Tomography as a Core Analysis Tool: Applications, Instrument Evaluation, and Image Improvement Techniques

In recent years, the use of computerized tomography (CT) to characterize two-phase fluid flow through porous media has become increasingly popular. This paper describes a different application of CT: it use as a core analysis tool. The advantages and disadvantages of the different technological generations of commercial medical CT scanners available as core analysis instruments are also discussed. Additionally, methods are presented for improving images and reducing CT-number errors inherent in the scanning of high-density rock samples on instruments whose software was designed for the scanning of the low-density human patients.