Quantification of clay minerals by combined EWA/XRD method

Illite has been considered the main constraint on permeability in the Morecambe Gas Field, East Irish Sea, UK. Previous research has emphasized the morphology rather than the amount of clay minerals. By applying a new method of clay mineral quantification, EWA/XRD, and applying statistical analysis methods, we are able to establish a quantitative model of illite distribution in the field. The result also leads to a better understanding of permeability distribution in reservoir sandstones.