Microstructural investigation of gas shales in two and three dimensions using nanometer-scale resolution imaging

Abstract The microstructure of gas shale samples from nine different formations has been investigated using a combination of focused ion beam (FIB) milling and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Backscattered electron (BSE) images of FIB cross sectioned shale surfaces show a complex microstructure with variations observed among the formations. Energy dispersive spectroscopy of the shale cross sections indicates that clay, carbonate, quartz, pyrite, and kerogen are the most prevalent components. In the BSE images, areas of kerogen are observed interspersed with the inorganic grains. Pores are observed in both the kerogen and inorganic matrix with the size, shape, and number of pores varying among the shale…