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Open-Source Tool Kit Uses 3D Printing for Micromodel Generation

In this paper, the authors present an open-source tool kit for the generation of microfabricated transparent models of porous media (micromodels) from image data sets using optically transparent 3D polymer additive manufacturing (3D printing or sintering).

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In this paper, the authors present an open-source tool kit for the generation of microfabricated transparent models of porous media (micromodels) from image data sets using optically transparent 3D polymer additive manufacturing (3D printing or sintering). These micromodels serve as research and pedagogical tools that facilitate the direct visualization of drainage and imbibition within quasi-2D porous media, generated from a range of image modalities [e.g., thin section micrographs, µ-computed tomography (μCT) orthoslices, and conventional digital photography].

Introduction

Though recent advances in 3D X-ray imaging, such as X-ray microtomography and µCT, permit volumetric imaging of microcore flood experiments within geological samples at the pore scale, experimental observations of dynamic (time-resolved) multiphase flow within pore networks still are obtained conventionally using transparent etched or molded synthetic porous media commonly referred to as micromodels. Typically, video footage of fluid imbibition and drainage experiments conducted across these quasi-2D pore networks is used to understand fluid distributions and displacement mechanisms within an equivalent 3D porous media. Contrary to state-of-the-art dynamic µCT coreflood experiments, which require synchrotron beam time to be conducted, micromodel studies can be undertaken routinely within a laboratory-based setting with a relatively simple experimental setup. However, the facilities required to fabricate micromodels typically are highly specialized, with production often outsourced to third-party manufacturers.

In this work, the authors consider the potential of using additive manufacturing (3D printing or sintering) as an alternative to conventional micromodel-fabrication techniques.

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