In my talk, I attempt to show the underlying fundamentals of “swelling” of rock and clays as related to the geomechanics, thermochemistry, and petrophysics. I will show, for example how Gibbs free energy can be used easily to quantify the “swelling” of various clays and how the same fundamental can be put to a profitable field practice. Specifically, I will show the application of the theory to practical drilling. Furthermore, I show how the thermochemistry principle of Gibb’s Free Energy is linearly related to the geomechnical “rebound” of clays or “swelling index” of rocks and the Neutron Logging principle, the Hydrogen Index of clays. As a part of my current research, I will give an insight into a possible relationship between Archie’s empirical Formation Resistivity factor and Maxwell’s unified electromagnetic theory. This may be of interest to those logging with tensor tools. Last but not the least, I will show some results of my research in de-noising the velocity waveforms of single phase turbulent flow as well as multiphase flow. This may be of interest to those working with flow anomalies seen in production logging and sand face flow measurements or down-hole, real-time flow metering.

President's Message:

Fellow Lafayette SPWLA Members,

Welcome to the final meeting of the 2008-2009 season! It has been quite an active 9 months in the oil business, and in general the market trend has not been positive. However, there are signs that we have reached the bottom and things are sure to improve. The energy business has always been cyclical and this trend seems likely to continue. Another energy business trend that is even more predictable is the consistent high quality and in-depth knowledge exhibited by Dr. A. Hayatdavoudi, PhD, PE, our May speaker. His talk “Rock, Shale, and Clay “Swelling” Characterization Using Petrophysics, Geomechanics, and Geothermochemistry Fundamentals And some hints about future research” is sure to be interesting and cutting-edge science. Bring along your co-workers with advanced degrees and show them how current we are with technology at SPWLA! Thanks to last month’s generous door prize sponsor, Petrolink Services, Inc. This month’s door prize is provided by Pathfinder. Recruiting has been completed for next year’s board members. The Lafayette SPWLA board for 2009 – 2010 will include Tom Stafford, repeating as VP Technology. Back for another term as Secretary/Treasurer is Joe Beck. Rick Goode will be our new VP Membership. Jeff Prilliman will be back for his last consecutive term as President. Mike Archer will be our Director. The Scholarship Committee comprised of Mike Archer, Dr. Asad Hayatdavoudi and Bob Peatross will be in their second year of a three-year term. The Golf Tournament Committee will be led by Mike Archer. Thanks for your support and attendance during 2008 – 2009. The 50th Annual Symposium is in Houston this year during June 21 – 24, which will minimize travel costs. I hope to see many of you there.

Be sure to call or email in your lunch reservations to Lauri Hardwick. Don’t forget the free lunch for students!

Jeff Prillman

Upcoming Meetings:

May 14th 2009 TBD

Downloads:
Newsletter

1969 Formation Water Resistivity Data (Large File 34 mB)

Scholarship Application Form

2008 Golf Tournament Flyer, Entry Form, and Sponsor Form

General Information