Characterizing coal gas reservoirs: A multiparametric evaluation based on geological and geophysical methods

The gas content of coal seams is a key parameter to guide the development of coalbed methane (CBM). While most studies focused on geological features, geophysical methods provide a powerful tool for the analysis of the differential distribution of CBM. In this paper, we present a comprehensive model for the quantitative evaluation of gas content in coal seams based on the computation of multiple parameters including lithology coefficient, deformation coefficient, and ash content. Based on the results of industrial analysis and isothermal adsorption tests of 135 coal samples, logging data of 76 CBM wells, as well as 10 2D seismic lines, a geophysical evaluation method of lithology inversion, structural curvature calculation, and ash content identification was established. Our study reveals the differential distribution characteristics of gas content in coal seams under the coupling effect of the three parameters. The results from this method were applied in the southeastern margin area of the Ordos Basin where 5# coal seam with sandstone and mudstone is interbedded as the roof and floor, and the mudstone in the roof contributes more to the sealing ability of surrounding rock. For the 8# coal seam with stabilized limestone and thinly interbedded mudstones as the roof, the limestone contributes most to the sealing ability. The sealing ability of surrounding rock is poorer in the area with large sandstone content in the roof and floor of coal seams and large structural curvature. The lithological combination of the 5# coal seam is the most critical gas controlling factor, whereas deformation coefficient is found to be least significant. However, for the 8# coal seam with little change in the lithology of the roof, the effect of deformation coefficient on gas content increases, and the adsorption capacity is the most important factor influencing the differential distribution of CBM.