MEASUREMENT OF 3-DIMENSIONAL PERMEABILITY

This study investigates the possibility of using a three-dimensional r adial flow test to measure permeability. As part of this investigation , compaction tests have been conducted to determine the fibre volume f raction as a function of the compaction pressure. Results from permeab ility tests are reported. The flow front in these tests is measured us ing thermistors. The dependence of the flow front shape on the injecti on pressure has been demonstrated. In the case of three-dimensional fl ow the capillary pressure can become more important than the externall y applied injection pressure. As a consequence, the sharp flow front b ecomes a flow front zone. Permeability measurement is no longer possib le. This has been confirmed experimentally. Finally, new possible appl ications for the flow measurement sensors are discussed. (C) 1997 Else vier Science Limited.