Parameter sensitivity studies have demonstrated that in situ gas content is one of the most important parameters controlling production rates and ultimate recoveries from sorbed gas reservoir systems (shale gas & CBM). In combination with the sorption isotherm, gas content measurements allow estimation of gas saturation and “critical desorption pressure”. Desorbed gas composition provides an indication of in situ gas composition. Gas content data can also be used to improve the accuracy of resource & reserve estimates as well as for computer modeling.

Gas content is determined most reliably by direct desorption tests on core samples. Testing of drill cuttings is also possible, although less accurate.

Why Perform Your Own Desorption Tests?

Companies involved in exploration & production of sorbed gas reservoirs might wish to conduct their own desorption tests for many reasons, including:

• Quality Control – Performing these tests “in house” enables total control of test procedures.
• Data Security–Sensitive data remain “in house”.
• Economy – The cost of data collection can be substantially decreased.
• Speed. Company retains full control of the priority in processing and reporting of data.
• Convenience –No need to wait for contractors or to handle subcontracts. Test equipment is available when needed.
• Cuttings Desorption – Desorption tests on cuttings may be done at minimal cost throughout development drilling. Such data might provide a useful semi-quantitative method of reservoir characterization.

Doesn’t Desorption Testing Require Specialized Equipment and Training?

It’s true, experience counts, but the equipment and procedures for desorption testing are not complex. Attaining good results requires attention to detail, and an understanding of the procedure and equipment. Reliable easy-to-use equipment and simplified procedures makes this task much easier.

We can provide training in desorption test procedures. Data processing software in Excel is also available.

The MDL Concept

Jeff Levine has experience in desorption testing dating back to 1974 at the United States Bureau of Mines, where he assisted in development of the USBM “Direct Method” (see Diamond and Levine, 1981). In subsequent years, many improvements have been made to the test procedures and equipment. Current procedures are aimed at attaining an optimal balance of:

• Reliability
• Ease of Use
• Accuracy
• Economy
• Durability
• Compactness
• Simplicity
• Portability

The concept of the Mobile Desorption Laboratory (MDL) is to provide a fully equipped laboratory facility that will enable desorption measurements to be initiated at the well site, then continued at a base lab facility, while constantly maintaining the samples in a stable temperature-controlled environment. The equipment is simple, reliable, and inexpensive.

Two complete laboratory setups are provided: 1) a mobile field lab and 2) base lab. The entire set of equipment is designed to be lightweight and portable. The mobile lab kit is easily carried in the back of a pickup truck, or may be shipped wherever needed via air freight.

For optimal simplicity and portability, the mobile field equipment can be set up outdoors without an enclosure. A canopy, or well-lit, temperature-controlled field building may be advantageous in some cases, but is not strictly required. The base lab is normally housed in a permanent facility, having heat, electricity, and water services.

Everything else you will need is included, in the kits, providing maximum utility at minimum cost.

Contact us for more information.