Spectroscopic nanosensor logging systems and methods
US8921768B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 1, 2011 |
| Grant date | Dec 30, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 1, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01V5/00
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Logging systems and methods that employ nanosensors to obtain spectral measurements downhole. The nanosensors can be dispersed in borehole fluids (including cement slurries) that circulate, diffuse, or get injected in a borehole. Because the nanosensors have diameters on the order of 10 nm to 1000 nm, they readily penetrate into cracks, pores, and other voids where their carrier fluids can reach. The nanosensors transport light sources and recording media to measure spectra in these otherwise inaccessible regions. The nanosensors are then recovered and analyzed to reconstruct the measured spectra and determine relevant material characteristics. Among other things, spectral measurements can reveal the presence of certain elements and molecules in the formation and fluids, from which information scientists determine composition and phases of formation fluids and the formation itself. Certain triggering criteria may also be employed to enable the nanosensor measurements to be associated with specific locations, paths, and/or events.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.