Discrete fracture and matrix (DFM) modelling of chalk: From CT-scans to permeability estimations

We present a workflow for upscaling equivalent permeability tensors of small-scale fracture networks based on X-ray computed tomography (CT) scans of core plugs from fractured reservoirs. The proposed workflow is composed of algorithms based on open source libraries and licensed software. The workflow includes segmentation of the CT-scans, surface skeletonization of the fracture objects, generation of the fracture network topology, meshing, fluid flow simulations on the obtained discrete fracture-matrix model and upscaling equivalent permeability tensors given the solution of three independent fluid flow problems on the CT-based DFM models. This approach aims to provide a more accurate representation of the three-dimensional flow properties of fracture networks, which is crucial for successful carbon storage in chalk formations.