This document highlights the use of the Transient Plane Source (TPS) method to characterize the thermal conductivity of sandstone and shale core samples at varying saturation levels, in accordance with ISO 22007-2.
In subsurface engineering, thermal conductivity of geological materials is a key input for applications ranging from geothermal energy extraction and oil reservoir modelling to underground construction and environmental remediation. Temperature distribution, heat exchanger design, and long-term thermal stability of subsurface systems all depend on accurate knowledge of how heat moves through the rock and soil formations present. Subsurface materials are rarely dry under field conditions. Fluid content alters thermal pathways through porous media because water has substantially higher thermal conductivity than air. As a result, the saturation state is a significant variable affecting the effective thermal conductivity of sedimentary rock formations. Testing at representative saturation levels is therefore necessary to generate data relevant to field conditions.
Sandstone and shale core samples were provided by Green Imaging Technologies (prepared by Taylor Kenney). Measurements were performed using the Trident Thermal Conductivity Instrument equipped with the Transient Plane Source (TPS) sensor, in accordance with ISO 22007-2. Samples were tested at 100% and 0% saturation (dry) conditions. All tests were performed at room temperature.
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