| Over the last couple of decades a number of numerical models have been developed, which describe various aspects of multiphase flow and transport in porous media. These models have become increasingly more complicated as computer technology has improved. Although some simulators have been tested against analytical solutions and compared against other codes, few of the numerical codes have been tested against controlled quantitative flow experiments. The main reason is the lack of quantitative experimental data for this testing. A major obstacle in obtaining reliable experimental data is the availability of robust and reliable measurement tools. One technique, developed in the USA, is the dual-energy gamma radiation system, which can be used to obtain measurements of fluid saturations, salt concentrations and porosities in one- and two-dimensional flow domains. The few fully operational dual-energy gamma radiation systems in the USA have greatly improved our knowledge of multi-fluid flow and solute transport in porous media and are continuously used to obtain quantitative data in a variety of research applications. Currently, European researchers need to collaborate with research institutes in the USA in order to obtain the essential data, which are needed for validating computer codes and hypotheses. The main advantage of the proposed system is the ability to conduct numerous non-destructive and non-intrusive measurements in a relatively short period of time. The requested equipment will become a central part of a laboratory on multi-fluid flow and subsurface restoration, which is located at the Faculty of Earth Sciences at the University of Utrecht. This new laboratory is a joint project of the University of Utrecht, TNO-NITG, University of Wageningen and TU Delft. All partners will be able to use the gamma system against actual costs. |
